JP6129723B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention, when the variable display specific display results predetermined for means for displaying deriving the display results after starting the variable display is derived displayed, the gaming machine to control the advantageous specific game state for the player About.

  As a gaming machine, a game medium such as a game ball is launched into a game area by a launching device, and when a game medium wins a prize area such as a prize opening provided in the game area, a predetermined number of prize balls are paid out to the player. There is something to be done. Furthermore, a variable display device capable of variably displaying the identification information (also referred to as “fluctuation”) is provided, which is advantageous to the player when the display result of the variable display of the identification information becomes the specific display result in the variable display device. Some are configured to be controllable to a specific gaming state.

  The specific game state means a state advantageous for a player who is given a predetermined game value. Specifically, the specific game state has a right to be in an advantageous state for a player who easily wins a game medium (a big hit game state), for example, a state of a special variable prize-winning device, or a state advantageous for a player. A state in which a predetermined game value such as a state or a state in which a condition for giving out premium game media is easily established is given.

  In such a gaming machine, the fact that the display result of the variable display device that displays the symbol as identification information is a combination of specific display modes (specific display result) determined in advance is generally referred to as “big hit”. When a big win occurs, for example, the big winning opening is opened a predetermined number of times, and the game medium shifts to a specific gaming state (a big winning gaming state) where the game medium is easy to win. And in each open period, if there is a prize for a predetermined number (for example, 10) of the big prize opening, the big prize opening is closed. An opening time (for example, 30 seconds) is determined for each opening, and even if the number of winnings does not reach a predetermined number, the winning opening is closed when the opening time elapses.

  Also, some of these gaming machines are provided with a plurality of gaming states including an advantageous gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state, and the variable display of the identification information is executed a predetermined number of times in the advantageous gaming state. There are some which are configured to end the advantageous gaming state on the condition.

  In addition, a game control means for controlling the progress of the game and an effect control means for controlling the execution of the effect based on a command transmitted from the game control means are provided. There is a gaming machine that has improved. For example, in the advantageous gaming state, there is an effect that uses the number of times until the variable display of the identification information reaches a predetermined number of times (that is, the number of times until the advantageous gaming state ends). Specifically, the production control means notifies the number of times in the advantageous gaming state, and updates the number of notifications based on receiving a command transmitted from the game control means at the start of variable display of the identification information. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

JP 2008-289739 A (paragraphs 0384, 0386, FIG. 52)

  However, in the gaming machine shown in Patent Document 1, the actual number of advantageous gaming states (that is, the number recognized by the game control means) and the number of notifications (that is, the effect control means recognizes). There is a risk of inconsistency.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine that can suppress the occurrence of inconsistency between the actual number of advantageous gaming states and the number of notifications.

(Means 1) The gaming machine according to the present invention is preset in variable display means (for example, the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b) for deriving and displaying the display result after starting the variable display. A game machine that controls a specific gaming state (for example, a big hit gaming state) advantageous to the player when a specific display result (for example, a big hit symbol) is derived and displayed, and controls the progress of the game means (e.g., a game control microcomputer 560) and, presentation control means for controlling the execution of the effect based on the command transmitted from the game control means (for example, effect control microcomputer 100) comprises a, a, game control The means includes a variable display related command (for example, a variation pattern command) related to variable display and a predetermined command (for example, a background designation command, a display Command transmission means (for example, a portion for executing steps S60, S102, and S107 to S109 in the game control microcomputer 560) and the number of variable displays is a predetermined number (for example, 50 times). State control means (for example, a part for executing steps S167 and S168 in the game control microcomputer 560) for controlling to an advantageous game state (for example, a probability change state) advantageous to the player, Variable display executing means for executing variable display based on the display related command (for example, a portion for executing S801 to S803 in the production control microcomputer 100) and variable display based on the variable display related command in the advantageous gaming state The remaining times until the number of times reaches the predetermined number (For example, a part for executing step S3001 in the production control microcomputer 100) and a notification unit (for example, a production control microcomputer) for notifying the update result by the update means. The variable display executing means does not receive the predetermined command normally when the variable display related command is normally received while being controlled in the normal gaming state. However, the variable display is executed and the display result is derived and displayed based on the variable display related command (for example, in the case of N in step S2601, whether or not the display result specifying command and the background specifying command are received). Steps S8001 to S8008 are executed) When the variable display related command is normally received while being controlled to the state, the variable display is executed on condition that the predetermined command has been normally received (for example, if the answer is Y in step S2601) On the condition that the result designation command and the background designation command have been received (Y in step S2602, Y in S2604), steps S8001 to S8008 are executed. Limit
When the variable display-related command is normally received while being controlled in the advantageous gaming state, the updating means updates the remaining number of times even if the predetermined command is not normally received (for example, Y in step S2601). If not, step S3001 is executed regardless of whether a display result designation command and a background designation command have been received). According to such a configuration, it is possible to suppress inconsistency in the number of times.
The gaming machine according to means 1 is
The first specific game state can be controlled when the first specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means, and the first specific game can be controlled when the second specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means. It is good to be controllable to the 2nd specific game state which is disadvantageous rather than a state.

  (Means 2) In the means 1, the variable display executing means swings and displays the identification information when the variable display related command is normally received and the predetermined command is not normally received while being controlled in the advantageous gaming state. (For example, if Y in step S2601 and no display result designation command or background designation command has been received (N in step S2602, N in S2604), step S2608 may be executed). According to such a structure, it can suppress giving a player misunderstanding.

  (Means 3) In the means 1 or 2, the command transmitting means transmits a number specifying command (for example, remaining number specifying command) that can specify the remaining number at the time of power-on (for example, executing S46), and notifying means. Is to notify the remaining number of times based on the fact that the variable display-related command is received after the number-of-times specifying command (for example, execute step S3002 in the effect symbol variation start process after Y in step S690A). Also good. According to such a configuration, it is possible to share the remaining number of notification modules.

(Means 4) Any gaming machine selected from means 1 to 3,
The timer measures a variable display time of the identification information (FIG. 41 (a)).
According to this feature, the amount of data corresponding to each variable display time of a plurality of variable display patterns can be prevented from increasing.

(Means 5) Any gaming machine selected from means 1 to 4,
The timer measures a predetermined error time (FIG. 41B).
According to this feature, the amount of data corresponding to a plurality of error times can be prevented from increasing.

(Means 6) Any one of the gaming machines selected from the means 1 to 5,
The timer measures an operation time for operating a movable object provided in the game area (FIGS. 41C and 41D).
According to this feature, the amount of data corresponding to each operation time of a plurality of operation patterns can be prevented from increasing.

(Means 7) Any gaming machine selected from means 1 to 6,
The predetermined number can be set.
According to this feature, various times can be measured by changing a predetermined number of settings for the counter to expire.

It is the front view which looked at the pachinko game machine from the front. It is a block diagram which shows the circuit structural example of a game control board (main board). It is a block diagram showing an example of circuit configuration of an effect control board, a lamp driver board and an audio output board. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows the main process which the microcomputer for game control performs. It is a flowchart which shows a 4 ms timer interruption process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern of the production | presentation symbol prepared beforehand. It is explanatory drawing which shows each random number. It is explanatory drawing which shows the big hit determination table and the big hit classification determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern classification determination table for big hits. It is explanatory drawing which shows the variation pattern classification determination table for deviation. It is explanatory drawing which shows a fluctuation pattern determination table. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the presentation control command which the microcomputer for game control transmits. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the content of the presentation control command which the microcomputer for game control transmits. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the program of a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows a starting port switch passage process. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a pending | holding buffer. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol normal process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern setting process. It is a flowchart which shows a display result designation | designated command transmission process. It is a flowchart which shows the special symbol stop process in a special symbol process process. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot end process in the special symbol process. It is a flowchart which shows the presentation control main process which CPU for presentation control performs. It is a flowchart which shows the specific example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows the specific example of a command analysis process. It is a flowchart which shows production control process processing. It is a flowchart which shows the process during fluctuation non-execution. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design fluctuation start process. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the stop symbol of the effect symbol in an effect display apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of a process table. It is a flowchart which shows the production | presentation symbol fluctuation | variation stop process in an effect control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot display process in an effect control process process. It is a flowchart which shows the jackpot end effect process in an effect control process process. It is a timing chart in the case of not performing variable display of effect design. It is a timing chart at the time of power supply restoration. It is a flowchart which shows the process during change non-execution in a modification. It is a flowchart which shows an effect design change start process in a modification. It is a timing chart in the case of not performing variable display of an effect design in a modification. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a timer update process.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a pachinko gaming machine 1 that is an example of a gaming machine will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine 1 as seen from the front.

  The pachinko gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame (not shown) formed in a vertically long rectangular shape, and a game frame attached to the inside of the outer frame so as to be opened and closed. Further, the pachinko gaming machine 1 has a glass door frame 2 formed in a frame shape that is provided in the game frame so as to be opened and closed. The game frame includes a front frame (not shown) that can be opened and closed with respect to the outer frame, a mechanism plate (not shown) to which mechanism parts and the like are attached, and various parts (games to be described later) attached to them. A structure including the board 6).

  On the lower surface of the glass door frame 2 is a hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3. Under the hitting ball supply tray 3, there are provided a surplus ball receiving tray 4 for storing game balls that cannot be accommodated in the hitting ball supply tray 3, and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 5 for firing the hitting ball. A game board 6 is detachably attached to the back surface of the glass door frame 2. The game board 6 is a structure including a plate-like body constituting the game board 6 and various components attached to the plate-like body. In addition, a game area 7 is formed on the front surface of the game board 6 in which a game ball that has been struck can flow down.

  The member that forms the extra ball tray (lower tray) 4 is configured in a stick shape (bar shape), for example, at a predetermined position on the front side of the upper surface of the lower tray main body (for example, the central portion of the lower tray). Is attached to the stick controller 122 that can be tilted in a plurality of directions (front and rear, left and right). It should be noted that the stick controller 122 has a predetermined operation, for example, by performing a push-pull operation with a predetermined operation finger (for example, an index finger) while the player holds the operation rod of the stick controller 122 with an operation hand (for example, the left hand) A trigger button 121 (see FIG. 3) capable of performing an instruction operation is provided, and a trigger sensor 125 (see FIG. 3) for detecting a predetermined instruction operation by a push-pull operation or the like on the trigger button 121 is provided inside the operation rod of the stick controller 122. 3) is built-in. In addition, a tilt direction sensor unit 123 (see FIG. 3) that detects a tilting operation with respect to the operating rod is provided in the lower plate main body and the like below the stick controller 122. The stick controller 122 includes a vibrator motor 126 (see FIG. 3) for causing the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

  The member that forms the hitting ball supply tray (upper plate) 3 is subjected to a predetermined instruction operation, for example, by a player pressing a predetermined position on the upper surface of the upper plate body (for example, above the stick controller 122). A possible push button 120 is provided. The push button 120 only needs to be configured to be able to detect a predetermined instruction operation such as a pressing operation from a player mechanically, electrically, or electromagnetically. A push sensor 124 (see FIG. 3) for detecting an operation action of the player performed on the push button 120 may be provided inside the main body of the upper plate at the position where the push button 120 is installed. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, the mounting positions of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 are in a vertical positional relationship in the central portion of the upper plate and the lower plate. On the other hand, it is good also considering the attachment position of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 as the position approached to either right or left in the upper plate and the lower plate, maintaining the vertical relationship. Alternatively, the mounting position of the push button 120 and the stick controller 122 is not in the vertical relationship, but may be in the horizontal relationship, for example.

  An effect display device 9 composed of a liquid crystal display device (LCD) is provided near the center of the game area 7. The display screen of the effect display device 9 includes an effect symbol display area for performing variable display of the effect symbol in synchronization with the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol. Therefore, the effect display device 9 corresponds to a variable display device that performs variable display of effect symbols. The effect symbol display area includes a symbol display area for variably displaying, for example, three decorative (effect) effect symbols of “left”, “middle”, and “right”. The symbol display area includes “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas, but the position of the symbol display area does not have to be fixed on the display screen of the effect display device 9. Three areas of the display area may be separated. The effect display device 9 is controlled by an effect control microcomputer mounted on the effect control board. When the first special symbol display 8a is executing variable display of the first special symbol, the effect control microcomputer causes the effect display device 9 to execute the effect display along with the variable display, and the second special symbol display 8a executes the second special display. When the variable display of the second special symbol is executed on the symbol display 8b, the effect display is executed by the effect display device 9 along with the variable display, so that the progress of the game can be easily grasped. .

  Further, in the effect display device 9, symbols other than the symbol that will be the final stop symbol (for example, the middle symbol of the left and right middle symbols) have continued for a predetermined time, and the jackpot symbol (for example, the left middle right symbol is aligned with the same symbol) Stops, swings, scales, or deforms in a state that matches the symbol combination), or multiple symbols fluctuate synchronously in the same symbol, or the position of the display symbol is switched Thus, an effect performed in a state where the possibility of occurrence of a big hit (hereinafter, these states are referred to as reach states) before the final result is displayed is referred to as reach effect. Further, the reach state and its state are referred to as a reach mode. Furthermore, variable display including reach production is called reach variable display. And when the display result of the symbol variably displayed on the effect display device 9 is not a big hit symbol, it becomes “out” and the variation display state ends. A player plays a game while enjoying how to generate a big hit.

  Note that, in this embodiment, a case is shown in which the effect symbol display is performed as a liquid crystal display effect in the effect display device 9, but the effect performed in the effect display device 9 is the one shown in this embodiment. For example, an effect having a predetermined story characteristic may be executed, and an effect may be executed in which the result of the story is displayed based on the determination result of the jackpot determination or the variation pattern. For example, perform a battle effect where professional wrestling or soccer matches and enemy characters fight, perform an effect to win the game or battle if it is a big hit, and perform an effect to defeat the game or battle if it is off Also good. Further, for example, instead of displaying the result such as winning or losing, an effect may be executed in which a predetermined story such as a story is developed in order.

  In the upper right part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there are provided fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d for displaying a fourth symbol after the effect symbol, a special symbol described later, and a normal symbol. In this embodiment, a fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol in which the variation display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol described later, There is provided a fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol in which the variation display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol.

  In this embodiment, the variation display of the effect symbol is executed in synchronization with the variation display of the special symbol (however, to be precise, the variation display of the effect symbol is varied on the effect control microcomputer 100 side). This is done by measuring the variation time recognized based on the pattern command.) When performing an effect using the effect display device 9, for example, the effect content including the change display of the effect symbol disappears from the screen for a moment. There are a variety of effects such as effects being performed and effects in which movable objects shield all or part of the screen. For this reason, even if the display screen on the effect display device 9 is viewed, it may be difficult to recognize whether or not the current variation display is in progress. Therefore, in this embodiment, whether or not the state of the present variation is being displayed by confirming the state of the fourth symbol by further displaying the variation of the fourth symbol on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. It is possible to reliably recognize whether or not. Note that the 4th symbol is always variably displayed with a constant operation and does not disappear from the screen or is not shielded by a shielding object, so that it can always be visually recognized.

  The 4th symbol for the first special symbol and the 4th symbol for the 2nd special symbol may be collectively referred to as the 4th symbol, and the 4th symbol display area 9c for the 1st special symbol and the 2nd special symbol The 4th symbol display area 9d for symbols may be collectively referred to as a 4th symbol display area.

  The variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol is realized by continuing the state where the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are repeatedly turned on and off at a predetermined time interval in a predetermined display color (for example, blue). . The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display unit 8a is synchronized with the variable display of the fourth symbol for the first special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol. The variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b is synchronized with the variable display of the fourth symbol for the second special symbol in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol. Synchronous means that the variable display start time and end time are the same, and the variable display period is the same.

  Further, when the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a, it is displayed in the display color reminiscent of the big hit in the fourth symbol display area 9c for the first special symbol (a display color different from the deviation). The For example, it is displayed in blue when it is off, while it is displayed in red when it is a big hit. Note that the display color may be varied depending on the type of jackpot. Also, the display color may be different depending on whether or not the game ball can be expected to win a big winning opening, and if it is possible to control multiple types of big hits with different numbers of rounds, The display color may be changed according to the number of rounds continued in the game. Even if the number of rounds per jackpot is the same, for example, the jackpot opening time per round is short (for example, 1 second), and a jackpot that cannot be expected to win a game ball in the jackpot. If the opening time of the big prize opening per round is long (for example, 30 seconds) and there is a big hit that can be expected to win a game ball to the big prize opening substantially, to the big prize opening substantially The display color may be varied depending on whether or not a game ball can be expected to win. In addition, for example, when there is a big hit that cannot be expected and a big hit that cannot be expected due to the difference in the number of times the big winning opening is opened per round, The display color may be varied depending on whether or not the game ball can be expected to win the mouth.

  When the big win symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, it is displayed in a display color reminiscent of the big hit in the fourth symbol display area 9d for the second special symbol (a display color different from the disparity). The For example, it is displayed in blue when it is off, while it is displayed in red when it is a big hit. Note that the display color may be varied depending on the type of jackpot. Also, the display color may be different depending on whether or not the game ball can be expected to win a big winning opening, and if it is possible to control multiple types of big hits with different numbers of rounds, The display color may be changed according to the number of rounds continued in the game. Even if the number of rounds per jackpot is the same, for example, the jackpot opening time per round is short (for example, 1 second), and a jackpot that cannot be expected to win a game ball in the jackpot. If the opening time of the big prize opening per round is long (for example, 30 seconds) and there is a big hit that can be expected to win a game ball to the big prize opening substantially, to the big prize opening substantially The display color may be varied depending on whether or not a game ball can be expected to win. In addition, for example, when there is a big hit that cannot be expected and a big hit that cannot be expected due to the difference in the number of times the big winning opening is opened per round, The display color may be varied depending on whether or not the game ball can be expected to win the mouth.

  The display colors when the fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are turned off are different from the background image (for example, black) in order to prevent the display colors from being assimilated with the background image when the lights are turned off. It is desirable to be.

  In this embodiment, the case where the 4th symbol display area is provided on a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is shown, but a light emitter such as a lamp or LED is used separately from the effect display device 9. Thus, the fourth symbol display area may be realized. In this case, for example, the variation (variable display) of the fourth symbol may be realized by continuing the state in which the two LEDs are alternately lit, and any of the two LEDs is stopped. Whether or not the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed may be indicated depending on whether or not it is displayed.

  Further, in this embodiment, a case is shown in which separate fourth symbol display areas 9c and 9d are provided corresponding to the first special symbol and the second special symbol, respectively, but the first special symbol and the second special symbol are provided. A fourth symbol display area common to the symbols may be provided in a part of the display screen of the effect display device 9. Moreover, you may make it implement | achieve the 4th symbol display area common with respect to a 1st special symbol and a 2nd special symbol using light-emitting bodies, such as a lamp | ramp and LED. In this case, when executing the variation display of the fourth symbol in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol, and when executing the variation display of the fourth symbol in synchronization with the variation display of the second special symbol, For example, the display of different display colors at certain time intervals may be performed by distinguishing and executing the variation display of the fourth symbol by performing display that repeatedly turns on and off. In addition, when the variation display of the fourth symbol is executed in synchronization with the variation display of the first special symbol, and when the variation display of the fourth symbol is performed in synchronization with the variation display of the second special symbol, for example, The display of the fourth symbol may be distinguished and executed by performing a display that repeatedly turns on and off at different time intervals. In addition, for example, when the stop symbol is derived and displayed corresponding to the variation display of the first special symbol, and when the stop symbol is derived and displayed corresponding to the variation display of the second special symbol, the same big hit symbol is obtained. However, you may make it stop-display the stop symbol of a different aspect.

  On the right side of the effect display device 9, a first special symbol display (first variable display unit) 8a for variably displaying the first special symbol as identification information is provided. In this embodiment, the first special symbol display 8a is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. In other words, the first special symbol display 8a is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Further, on the right side of the effect display device 9 (next to the right of the first special symbol display 8a), a second special symbol display (second variable display unit) 8b for variably displaying the second special symbol as identification information. Is also provided. The second special symbol display 8b is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the second special symbol display 8b is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9.

  The small display is formed in a square shape, for example. In this embodiment, the type of the first special symbol and the type of the second special symbol are the same (for example, both 0 to 9), but the types may be different. Further, the first special symbol display 8a and the second special symbol display 8b may be configured to variably display numbers (or two-digit symbols) of, for example, 00 to 99, for example.

  Hereinafter, the first special symbol and the second special symbol may be collectively referred to as a special symbol, and the first special symbol indicator 8a and the second special symbol indicator 8b are collectively referred to as a special symbol indicator (variable display unit). There are things to do.

  Although this embodiment shows a case where two special symbol indicators 8a and 8b are provided, the gaming machine may be provided with only one special symbol indicator.

  For the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol, the first start condition or the second start condition, which is the variable display execution condition, is satisfied (for example, the game ball has the first start winning opening 13 or the second start winning opening) 14 after passing (including winning)), the variable display start condition (for example, when the number of reserved memories is not 0 and the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol is not executed) The state is started and the big hit game is not executed), and when the variable display time (fluctuation time) elapses, the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. Note that the passing of a game ball means that the game ball has passed through a predetermined area such as a prize opening or a gate, and that includes a game ball entering (winning) a prize opening. It is. Deriving and displaying the display result is to finally stop and display a symbol (an example of identification information).

  A winning device having a first start winning port 13 is provided below the effect display device 9. The game ball won in the first start winning opening 13 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the first start opening switch 13a.

  A waveform stage 90 is provided below the effect display device 9 and above the winning device having the first start winning opening 13. A part of the game balls B that have been driven into the game area rides on the stage 90, and the game balls B travel back and forth on the stage 90, and a hole 90 a formed in the center of the stage 90. It falls in, or falls without entering the hole 90a. The game ball B that has fallen into the hole 90a easily passes (enters) the first start winning opening 13 formed in the winning device provided directly below the hole 90a.

  A blade 91 that is a movable object is provided at the left end of the stage 90. This blade 91 is driven by the solenoid 22 shown in FIG. 2, and is in a closed state (solid line 91) in a vertical position when the solenoid 22 is in an off state, and is moved downward when the solenoid 22 is in an on state. It changes to the open state (dotted line 91 ′) of the tilting position tilted about 45 ° counterclockwise as the center. When in the open state, the game ball driven into the game area is easily guided to the stage 90 by being guided by the blades 91 at the tilting position. The blades 91 are changed by the control of the game control microcomputer 560. The details will be described later with reference to FIG. 41. As shown in FIG. 41C, the blades 91 are opened after 10 minutes from the closed state. As shown in (d), the closed state is reached after 5 seconds from the opened state.

  A variable winning ball device 15 having a second starting winning port 14 through which a game ball can be won is provided below a winning device having a first starting winning port (first starting port) 13. The game ball that has won the second start winning opening (second start opening) 14 is guided to the back of the game board 6 and detected by the second start opening switch 14a. The variable winning ball device 15 is opened by a solenoid 16. When the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state, the game ball can be awarded to the second starting winning port 14 (it is easier to start winning), which is advantageous for the player. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state, it is easier for the game ball to win the second start winning opening 14 than the first starting winning opening 13. In addition, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, the game ball does not win the second start winning opening 14. Therefore, in a state where the variable winning ball device 15 is in the closed state, it is easier for the game ball to win the first starting winning port 13 than the second starting winning port 14. In the state where the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the closed state, it may be configured that the winning is possible (that is, it is difficult for the gaming ball to win) although it is difficult to win a prize.

  Hereinafter, the first start winning opening 13 and the second start winning opening 14 may be collectively referred to as a start winning opening or a starting opening.

  When the variable winning ball device 15 is controlled to be in the open state, the game ball heading for the variable winning ball device 15 is very likely to win the second start winning port 14. The first start winning opening 13 is provided directly under the effect display device 9, but the interval between the lower end of the effect display device 9 and the first start winning opening 13 is further reduced, or the first start winning opening is set. The nail arrangement around the first start winning opening 13 is made difficult to guide the game balls to the first starting winning opening 13 so that the winning rate of the second starting winning opening 14 is increased. It is also possible to make the direction higher than the winning rate of the first start winning opening 13.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the variable winning ball apparatus 15 that opens and closes only the second start winning opening 14 is provided. Any of the start winning ports 14 may be provided with a variable winning ball device that performs an opening / closing operation.

  Above the second special symbol display 8b, there is a second special symbol hold memory display 18b comprising four displays for displaying the number of effective winning balls that have entered the second start winning opening 14, that is, the second reserved memory number. Is provided. The second special symbol storage memory display 18b increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 every time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the second special symbol display 8b is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Further, above the second special symbol hold memory display 18b, the number of effective winning balls that have entered the first start winning opening 13, that is, the first hold memory number (the hold memory is also referred to as start memory or start prize memory). ) Is displayed, a first special symbol reservation storage display 18a is provided. The first special symbol storage memory indicator 18a increases the number of indicators to be lit by 1 each time there is an effective start winning. Then, each time the variable display on the first special symbol display 8a is started, the number of indicators to be turned on is reduced by one.

  Also, at the lower part of the display screen of the effect display device 9, there are provided a first reserved memory display unit 18c for displaying the first reserved memory number and a second reserved memory display unit 18d for displaying the second reserved memory number. ing. In addition, you may make it provide the area | region (sum total pending | holding memory display part) which displays the total number (sum total pending memory count) which is the sum total of the 1st pending memory count and the 2nd pending memory count. As described above, if the summation pending storage display section for displaying the total number is provided, it is possible to easily grasp the total number of execution conditions that are not satisfied with the variable display start condition.

  The effect display device 9 is for decoration (for effects) during the variable display time of the first special symbol by the first special symbol display 8a and during the variable display time of the second special symbol by the second special symbol display 8b. A variable display of the effect symbol as the symbol is performed. The variable display of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8a and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, the variable display of the second special symbol on the second special symbol display 8b and the variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9 are synchronized. Further, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b, the effect display device 9 reminds the jackpot The combination of is stopped and displayed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a special variable winning ball apparatus 20 that forms a big winning opening is provided below the variable winning ball apparatus 15. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 includes an opening / closing plate, and is specified when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a and when a specific display result is derived and displayed on the second special symbol display 8b. Controlled to gaming state. The specific display result is a predetermined display result. For example, in the present embodiment, there is a jackpot symbol. The specific game state is to change the variable winning means that can be changed between the first state advantageous to the player and the second state unfavorable to the player to the first state. There is a big hit gaming state in which the special variable winning ball apparatus 20 that can be changed to a closed state is opened. For example, when the big hit symbol is derived and displayed as the specific display result, the big hit game state is controlled as the specific game state. In each specific game state, the open / closed version that is in the closed state is controlled to be in the open state by the solenoid 21, so that the large winning opening that becomes the winning area is in the open state. The game ball that has won the big winning opening is detected by the count switch 23. The special variable winning ball apparatus 20 is provided with a large winning opening LED 20A that is lit and displayed when a game ball is won.

  On the left side of the effect display device 9, a normal symbol display 10 for variably displaying normal symbols is provided. In this embodiment, the normal symbol display 10 is realized by a simple and small display (for example, 7 segment LED) capable of variably displaying numbers 0 to 9. That is, the normal symbol display 10 is configured to variably display numbers (or symbols) from 0 to 9. Moreover, the small display is formed in, for example, a square shape. Note that the normal symbol display 10 may be configured to variably display a number (or a two-digit symbol) of, for example, 00 to 99. In addition, the normal symbol display 10 is not limited to a 7-segment LED or the like, for example, a display capable of lighting a predetermined symbol display (for example, a decoration lamp capable of alternately lighting and displaying “O” and “X”). It may be comprised.

  When the game ball passes through the gate 32 and is detected by the gate switch 32a, variable display of the normal symbol display 10 is started. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is a predetermined symbol (a winning symbol, for example, a symbol “7”), the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In other words, the state of the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is a state that is advantageous from a disadvantageous state for the player when the normal symbol is a stop symbol (a state in which a game ball can be awarded at the second start winning port 14). To change. In the vicinity of the normal symbol display 10, a normal symbol holding storage display 41 having a display unit with four LEDs for displaying the number of winning balls that have passed through the gate 32 is provided. Each time there is a game ball passing through the gate 32, that is, every time a game ball is detected by the gate switch 32a, the normal symbol storage memory display 41 increases the number of LEDs to be turned on by one. Each time variable display on the normal symbol display 10 is started, the number of LEDs to be lit is reduced by one. In addition, a probability variation state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit compared to the normal state is high (a state in which the probability of being determined to be a big hit as a result of fluctuation display of special symbols is increased compared to the normal state). Then, there is a case where the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is shifted to a high base state where the opening time and the number of times of opening are increased.

  At the lower part of the game board 6, there is an out-port 26 through which a hit ball that has not won is taken. In addition, four speakers 27 that utter sound effects and sounds as predetermined sound outputs are provided on the upper left and right and lower left and right outside the game area 7. On the outer periphery of the game area 7, a frame LED 28 provided on the front frame is provided.

  In the gaming machine, a ball striking device (not shown) that drives a driving motor in response to a player operating the batting operation handle 5 and uses the rotational force of the driving motor to launch a gaming ball to the gaming area 7. ) Is provided. A game ball launched from the ball striking device enters the game area 7 through a ball striking rail formed in a circular shape so as to surround the game area 7, and then descends the game area 7. When the game ball enters the first start winning opening 13 and is detected by the first start opening switch 13a, if the variable display of the first special symbol can be started (for example, the variable display of the special symbol ends, 1), the variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a, and the variable display of the effect symbol is started on the effect display device 9. That is, the variable display of the first special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the first start winning opening 13. If the variable display of the first special symbol cannot be started, the first reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  When the game ball enters the second start winning opening 14 and is detected by the second start opening switch 14a, if the variable display of the second special symbol can be started (for example, the special symbol variable display ends, 2), the second special symbol display 8b starts variable display (variation) of the second special symbol, and the effect display device 9 starts variable display of the effect symbol. That is, the variable display of the second special symbol and the effect symbol corresponds to winning in the second start winning opening 14. If the variable display of the second special symbol cannot be started, the second reserved memory number is increased by 1 on condition that the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value.

  In this embodiment, when the 15R probability variation big hit or the 4R probability variation big hit is reached, the game state is shifted to a high probability state, and the game ball becomes easy to start winning (that is, the special symbol indicators 8a, 8b, A transition is made to the high base state, which is a gaming state controlled so that the variable display execution condition in the effect display device 9 is easily established. In the high base state, for example, the frequency at which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is increased or the time in which the variable winning ball device 15 is in the open state is extended compared to the case in which the high base state is not in the high base state. It becomes easier to win a start.

  Instead of extending the time during which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is in the open state (also referred to as the open extended state), the normal symbol display unit 10 shifts to a normal symbol probability changing state in which the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display unit 10 will be a hit symbol is increased. Depending on the situation, the high base state may be entered. When the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a predetermined symbol (winning symbol), the variable winning ball device 15 is opened for a predetermined number of times. In this case, by performing the transition control to the normal symbol probability changing state, the probability that the stop symbol in the normal symbol display 10 becomes a winning symbol is increased, and the frequency at which the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased. Therefore, if the normal symbol probability changing state is entered, the opening time and the number of opening times of the variable winning ball device 15 are increased, and a state where it is easy to start a winning (high base state) is achieved. That is, the opening time and the number of times of opening of the variable winning ball device 15 can be increased when the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol or the stop symbol of the special symbol is a probabilistic symbol. It changes to an advantageous state (a state where it is easy to win a start). It should be noted that increasing the number of times of opening is a concept including changing from a closed state to an open state.

  Moreover, you may transfer to a high base state by shifting to the normal symbol time short state where the fluctuation time (variable display period) of the normal symbol in the normal symbol display 10 is shortened. In the normal symbol short-time state, the variation time of the normal symbol is shortened, so that the frequency of starting the variation of the normal symbol increases, and as a result, the frequency of hitting the normal symbol increases. Therefore, when the frequency that the normal symbol is hit increases, the frequency that the variable winning ball apparatus 15 is opened is increased, and the start winning state is easily set (high base state).

  In addition, by changing to the short time state (special symbol short time state) in which the variation time (variable display period) of special symbols and staging symbols is shortened, the variation time of special symbols and staging symbols is shortened. The frequency at which the production symbol changes is increased (in other words, the reserved memory is quickly digested), and the situation in which an invalid start prize is generated can be reduced. Therefore, an effective start winning is likely to occur, and as a result, the possibility of a big hit game being increased.

  Furthermore, by shifting to all the states shown above (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state), it will be easier to win a start (shift to a high base state). May be. In addition, it is easier to win a start (high base) by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). Transition to a state). In addition, it is easier to win a start by shifting to any one of the above states (open extended state, normal symbol probability changing state, normal symbol short time state, and special symbol short time state). You may make it move to a base state.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the main board (game control board) 31. FIG. 2 also shows a payout control board 37, an effect control board 80, and the like. A game control microcomputer (corresponding to game control means) 560 for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 according to a program is mounted on the main board 31. The game control microcomputer 560 includes a ROM 54 for storing a game control (game progress control) program and the like, a RAM 55 as storage means used as a work memory, a CPU 56 for performing control operations in accordance with the program, and an I / O port unit 57. including. In this embodiment, the ROM 54 and the RAM 55 are built in the game control microcomputer 560. That is, the game control microcomputer 560 is a one-chip microcomputer. The one-chip microcomputer only needs to incorporate at least the CPU 56 and the RAM 55, and the ROM 54 may be external or built-in. The I / O port unit 57 may be externally attached. The game control microcomputer 560 further includes a random number circuit 503 that generates hardware random numbers (random numbers generated by the hardware circuit).

  The RAM 55 is a backup RAM as a non-volatile storage means, part or all of which is backed up by a backup power source created on the power supply substrate 910. That is, even if the power supply to the gaming machine is stopped, a part or all of the contents of the RAM 55 is stored for a predetermined period (until the capacitor as the backup power supply is discharged and the backup power supply cannot be supplied). In particular, at least data (special symbol process flag, probability variation flag, etc.) corresponding to the game state, that is, the control state of the game control means, and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are stored in the backup RAM. The data corresponding to the control state of the game control means is data necessary for restoring the control state before the occurrence of a power failure or the like based on the data when the power is restored after a power failure or the like occurs. Further, data corresponding to the control state and data indicating the number of unpaid prize balls are defined as data indicating the progress state of the game. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the entire RAM 55 is backed up.

  In the game control microcomputer 560, the CPU 56 executes control in accordance with the program stored in the ROM 54, so that the game control microcomputer 560 (or CPU 56) executes (or performs processing) hereinafter. Specifically, the CPU 56 executes control according to a program. The same applies to microcomputers mounted on substrates other than the main substrate 31.

  The random number circuit 503 is a hardware circuit that is used to generate a random number for determination to determine whether or not to win a jackpot based on a display result of variable symbol special display. The random number circuit 503 updates numerical data in accordance with a set update rule within a numerical range in which an initial value (for example, 0) and an upper limit value (for example, 65535) are set, and starts at a random timing Based on the fact that the winning time is the reading (extraction) of the numerical data, it has a random number generation function in which the numerical data to be read becomes a random value.

  The random number circuit 503 includes a numeric data update range selection setting function (initial value selection setting function and upper limit value selection setting function), numeric data update rule selection setting function, and numeric data update rule selection. It has various functions such as a switching function. With such a function, the randomness of the generated random numbers can be improved.

  Further, the game control microcomputer 560 has a function of setting an initial value of numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. For example, a predetermined calculation is performed using the ID number of the game control microcomputer 560 stored in a predetermined storage area such as the ROM 54 (an ID number assigned with a different value for each product of the game control microcomputer 560). The numerical data obtained by the execution is set as the initial value of the numerical data updated by the random number circuit 503. By performing such processing, the randomness of the random number generated by the random number circuit 503 can be further improved.

  Further, an input driver circuit 58 that provides detection signals from the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a, and the count switch 23 to the game control microcomputer 560 is also mounted on the main board 31. Further, a solenoid 16 for opening / closing the variable winning ball device 15, a solenoid 21 for opening / closing the special variable winning ball device 20 for forming a big winning opening, and a solenoid 22 for opening / closing the blade 91 are in accordance with instructions from the game control microcomputer 560. An output circuit 59 for driving is also mounted on the main board 31.

  In addition, the game control microcomputer 560 includes a first special symbol display 8a, a second special symbol display 8b that variably displays special symbols, a normal symbol display 10 that variably displays normal symbols, and a first special symbol hold memory. Display control of the display 18a, the second special symbol storage memory display 18b, and the normal symbol storage memory display 41 is performed.

  In addition to the above, the ROM 54 provided in the game control microcomputer 560 shown in FIG. 2 stores a predetermined number at which the counter count updated every predetermined time (in this example, 4 ms of the interrupt interval) expires. ing. Since this counter is composed of 1 byte in this example, it can be counted in the range of 0 to 255 (00 (H) to FF (H)), and a predetermined number can be set in this range. By changing the setting of the predetermined number, various times can be measured. In this example, the predetermined number is set to 25, and thus the counter expires in a predetermined time 4 ms × the predetermined number 25 = 100 ms. This is because, as shown in FIG. 7 described later, the variation time of the special symbol is set in units of 100 ms. The ROM 54 also stores initial values (see FIG. 41) for each of a plurality of types of timers. These counters and timers are provided in the game control timer setting unit of the RAM 55.

  The game control timer setting unit of the RAM 55 is provided with various timers and the counter used for controlling the progress of the game in the pachinko gaming machine 1. This timer is based on the fact that the count number of the counter updated every predetermined time (in this example, 4 ms of the interrupt interval) has reached a predetermined number (25 counts in this example) (that is, 100 ms have passed). It is updated and is for measuring the time related to the progress of the game (for example, fluctuation time, error time, operating time of the blade 91, etc.). Since this timer is composed of 2 bytes in this example, it can be counted in the range of 0 to 65535 (0000 (H) to FFFF (H)), and the maximum is 65535 counts × expiration time of the counter 100 ms = 109 minutes. Can count 13 seconds 50. Therefore, it is possible to measure the fluctuation time of 300 seconds = 5 minutes of the fluctuation pattern of the super PC 3-1 and the fluctuation pattern of the super PC 3-2 (that is, the fluctuation pattern in which the super reach C is executed) shown in FIG.

  Here, if the time is measured only with the 2-byte timer without providing the counter, since only 65535 counts × interrupt interval 4 ms = 4 minutes 22 seconds 14 can be measured at the longest, the super reach C is executed in a variation pattern I can not cope. On the other hand, if the timer is set to 3 bytes in order to increase the time that can be measured, it can be counted in the range of 0-16777215 (000000 (H) to FFFFFF (H)), the longest being 16777215 counts × interrupt interval 4 ms = 18 Although the time exceeding 38 minutes can be measured, since the data for 3 bytes is required for the number of fluctuation patterns, the amount of data increases.

  Therefore, in this example, the data of the fluctuation pattern is updated by the timer as 2 bytes, and the time is updated by using a counter for 1 byte separately. Therefore, the time that can be measured as compared with the case of using only the timer The amount of fluctuation pattern data is not increased. The update process of these counters and timers will be described later with reference to FIG.

  An information output circuit 64 that outputs an information output signal such as jackpot information indicating the occurrence of a jackpot gaming state to an external device such as a hall management computer via the terminal board 160 is also mounted on the main board 31. Yes.

  In this embodiment, the effect control means (configured by the effect control microcomputer) mounted on the effect control board 80 instructs the effect contents from the game control microcomputer 560 via the relay board 77. An effect control command is received, and display control of the effect display device 9 for variably displaying effect symbols is performed.

  Further, the effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80 controls the display of the frame LED 28 provided on the frame side and the big prize opening LED 20A provided at the big prize opening via the lamp driver board 35. And the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled via the sound output board 70.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration example of the relay board 77, the effect control board 80, the lamp driver board 35, and the audio output board 70. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70 are not equipped with a microcomputer, but may be equipped with a microcomputer. Further, without providing the lamp driver board 35 and the audio output board 70, only the effect control board 80 may be provided for effect control.

  The effect control board 80 includes an effect control CPU 101 and an effect control microcomputer 100 including a RAM for storing information related to effects such as effect symbol process flags. The RAM may be externally attached. In this embodiment, the RAM in the production control microcomputer 100 is not backed up. In the effect control board 80, the effect control CPU 101 operates in accordance with a program stored in a built-in or external ROM (not shown), and receives a capture signal from the main board 31 input via the relay board 77 ( In response to the (effect control INT signal), an effect control command is received via the input driver 102 and the input port 103. Further, the effect control CPU 101 causes the VDP (video display processor) 109 to perform display control of the effect display device 9 based on the effect control command.

  In this embodiment, a VDP 109 that performs display control of the effect display device 9 in cooperation with the effect control microcomputer 100 is mounted on the effect control board 80. The VDP 109 has an address space independent of the production control microcomputer 100, and maps a VRAM therein. VRAM is a buffer memory for developing image data. Then, the VDP 109 outputs the image data in the VRAM to the effect display device 9 via the frame memory.

  The effect control CPU 101 outputs to the VDP 109 a command for reading out necessary data from a CGROM (not shown) in accordance with the received effect control command. The CGROM stores character image data and moving image data displayed on the effect display device 9, specifically, a person, characters, figures, symbols (including effect symbols), and background image data in advance. ROM. The VDP 109 reads image data from the CGROM in response to the instruction from the effect control CPU 101. The VDP 109 executes display control based on the read image data.

  The effect control command and the effect control INT signal are first input to the input driver 102 on the effect control board 80. The input driver 102 passes the signal input from the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the inside of the effect control board 80 (does not pass the signal in the direction from the inside of the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). It is also a unidirectional circuit as a regulating means.

  As a signal direction regulating means, the signal inputted from the main board 31 is allowed to pass through the relay board 77 only in the direction toward the effect control board 80 (the signal is not passed in the direction from the effect control board 80 to the relay board 77). The unidirectional circuit 74 is mounted. For example, a diode or a transistor is used as the unidirectional circuit. FIG. 3 illustrates a diode. A unidirectional circuit is provided for each signal. Furthermore, since the effect control command and the effect control INT signal are output from the main board 31 via the output port 571 that is a unidirectional circuit, the signal from the relay board 77 toward the inside of the main board 31 is restricted. That is, the signal from the relay board 77 does not enter the inside of the main board 31 (the game control microcomputer 560 side). The output port 571 is a part of the I / O port unit 57 shown in FIG. Further, a signal driver circuit that is a unidirectional circuit may be further provided outside the output port 571 (on the relay board 77 side).

  In addition, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action on the trigger button 121 of the stick controller 122 has been detected from the trigger sensor 125 via the input port 106. Further, the effect control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that a player's operation action on the push button 120 has been detected from the push sensor 124 via the input port 106. In addition, the production control CPU 101 inputs an operation detection signal as an information signal indicating that the player's operation action with respect to the operation rod of the stick controller 122 has been detected from the tilt direction sensor unit 123 via the input port 106. . Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a drive signal to the vibrator motor 126 via the output port 105 to cause the stick controller 122 to vibrate.

  Further, the effect control CPU 101 outputs a signal for driving the LED to the lamp driver board 35 via the output port 105. Further, the production control CPU 101 outputs sound number data to the audio output board 70 via the output port 104.

  In the lamp driver board 35, a signal for driving the LED is input to the LED driver 352 via the input driver 351. The LED driver 352 supplies current to light emitters such as the frame LED 28 and the special prize opening LED 20A based on a signal for driving the LED.

  In the voice output board 70, the sound number data is input to the voice synthesis IC 703 via the input driver 702. The voice synthesizing IC 703 generates voice or sound effect according to the sound number data, and outputs it to the amplifier circuit 705. The amplification circuit 705 outputs an audio signal obtained by amplifying the output level of the speech synthesis IC 703 to a level corresponding to the volume set by the volume 706 to the speaker 27. The voice data ROM 704 stores control data corresponding to the sound number data. The control data corresponding to the sound number data is a collection of data showing the output form of the sound effect or sound in a time series in a predetermined period (for example, the changing period of the effect design).

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine will be described. 4 and 5 show main processing executed by the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 in response to the start of power supply to the game machine and the reset signal to the game control microcomputer 560 becoming high level. It is a flowchart which shows. When the input level of the reset terminal to which the reset signal is input becomes a high level, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 executes a security check process that is a process for confirming whether the contents of the program are valid. The main processing after step S1 is started. In the main process, the CPU 56 first performs necessary initial settings.

  In the initial setting process, the CPU 56 first sets the interrupt prohibition (step S1). Next, an interrupt mode for maskable interrupts is set (step S2), and a stack pointer designation address is set for the stack pointer (step S3). In step S2, the address synthesized from the value (1 byte) of the specific register (I register) of the game control microcomputer 560 and the interrupt vector (1 byte: least significant bit 0) output from the built-in device is Set to the mode indicating the interrupt address. When a maskable interrupt occurs, the CPU 56 automatically sets the interrupt disabled state and saves the contents of the program counter in the stack.

  Next, the built-in device register is set (initialized) (step S5). By the processing in step S5, the CTC (counter / timer) and PIO (parallel input / output port) which are built-in devices (built-in peripheral circuits) are set (initialized).

  The game control microcomputer 560 used in this embodiment also incorporates an I / O port (PIO) and a timer / counter circuit (CTC) 504.

  Next, the CPU 56 sets the RAM 55 in an accessible state (step S6), and proceeds to a clear signal check process.

  Note that a software delay process for delaying the start timing of the game device control process (game control process) for controlling the progress of the game by software may be executed. By such software delay processing, the start timing of the game control processing can be delayed as compared with the case where the software delay processing is not executed. When the delay process is executed, a situation occurs in which the microcomputer of the other control board cannot receive the command transmitted from the game control board (main board 31) to the other control board (for example, the payout control board 37). Can be prevented.

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the clear switch is turned on (step S7). Note that the CPU 56 may confirm the state of the clear signal only once via the input port 0, but may confirm the state of the clear signal a plurality of times. For example, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is an off state, after a delay time of a predetermined time (for example, 0.1 seconds), the state of the clear signal is reconfirmed. If it is confirmed that the clear signal is in the on state at that time, it is determined that the clear signal is in the on state. Further, at this time, if it is confirmed that the state of the clear signal is the off state, after a delay time of a predetermined time, the state of the clear signal may be confirmed again. Here, the number of reconfirmations is not limited to once or twice, but may be three or more times. It is also possible to check twice and check again when the check results do not match.

  If the clear switch is not turned on in step S7, whether or not data protection processing of the backup RAM area (for example, power supply stop processing such as addition of parity data) has been performed when power supply to the gaming machine is stopped Confirm (step S8). In this embodiment, when power supply is stopped, a process for protecting data in the backup RAM area is performed. When it is confirmed that such power supply stop processing has been performed, the CPU 56 determines that the power supply stop processing has been performed, that is, the control state at the time of power supply stop is stored. . When it is confirmed that the power supply stop process is not performed, the CPU 56 executes an initialization process.

  Whether or not the power supply stop process has been performed is determined by the value of the backup monitoring timer stored in the backup RAM area in the power supply stop process corresponding to the execution of the power supply stop process (for example, 2). ) Is confirmed by whether or not. Note that such a confirmation method is an example. For example, a flag indicating that the power supply stop process has been executed is set in the backup flag area in the power supply stop process, and the flag is set in step S8. If it is confirmed that the power supply is stopped, it may be determined that the power supply stop process has been performed.

  If it is determined that the control state at the time of stopping power supply is stored, the CPU 56 performs data check (parity check in this example) in the backup RAM area (step S9). In this embodiment, clear data (00) is set in the checksum data area, and the checksum calculation start address is set in the pointer. Also, the number of checksum calculations corresponding to the number of data to be checksum is set. Then, the exclusive OR of the contents of the checksum data area and the contents of the RAM area pointed to by the pointer is calculated. The calculation result is stored in the checksum data area, the pointer value is incremented by 1, and the checksum calculation count value is decremented by 1. The above processing is repeated until the value of the checksum calculation count becomes zero. When the value of the checksum calculation count becomes 0, the CPU 56 inverts the value of each bit of the contents of the checksum data area and uses the inverted data as the checksum.

  In the power supply stop process, a checksum is calculated by the same process as described above, and the checksum is stored in the backup RAM area. In step S9, the calculated checksum is compared with the stored checksum. When the power supply is stopped after an unexpected power failure or the like, the data in the backup RAM area should be saved, so the check result (comparison result) is normal (matched). That the check result is not normal means that the data in the backup RAM area may be different from the data when the power supply is stopped. In such a case, since the internal state cannot be returned to the state when the power supply is stopped, the initialization process (the process of steps S10 to S14) executed when the power is turned on, not when the power supply is stopped is stopped. Run.

  If the check result is normal, the CPU 56 performs a game state restoration process for returning the internal state of the game control means and the control state of the electrical component control means such as the effect control means to the state when the power supply is stopped. Specifically, the start address of the backup setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S41), and the contents of the backup setting table are sequentially set in the work area (area in the RAM 55) (step S42). ). The work area is backed up by a backup power source. In the backup setting table, initialization data for an area that may be initialized in the work area is set. As a result of the processing in steps S41 and S42, the saved contents of the work area that should not be initialized remain as they are. The parts that should not be initialized include, for example, data indicating the gaming state before the power supply is stopped (special symbol process flag, probability change flag, etc.), the area where the output state of the output port is saved (output port buffer), This is a portion where data indicating the number of payout prize balls is set.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the head address of the backup command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S43). Further, the CPU 56 transmits a power failure recovery designation command as an initialization command at the time of power supply recovery (step S44). Then, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set (step S45). If it is not set (that is, in the normal state), the process proceeds to step S15. If it is set (that is, if it is in the probability variation state), a residual number designation command indicating the remaining number of times in the probability variation state is transmitted (step S46), and the process proceeds to step S15. The remaining number of times of the probability variation state is the value of the probability variation number counter in the present embodiment. In this embodiment, when a big hit occurs in the normal state, the probability variation flag is set and 50 is set in the probability variation counter, and the value of the probability variation counter is decremented by 1 each time a change occurs. The probability variation flag is reset when the value of the probability variation counter becomes zero. Thereby, it is set as the structure which transfers to the probability change state of 50 times after big hit occurrence.

  In the initialization process, the CPU 56 first performs a RAM clear process (step S10). Note that the predetermined data may be left as it is without initializing the entire area of the RAM 55. Also, the initial address of the initialization setting table stored in the ROM 54 is set as a pointer (step S11), and the contents of the initialization setting table are sequentially set in the work area (step S12).

  By the processing of steps S11 and S12, for example, a normal symbol determination random number counter, a normal symbol determination buffer, a special symbol buffer, a special symbol process flag, a winning ball flag, a ball-out flag, and the like are selectively processed according to the control state. An initial value is set in a flag for performing the above.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the start address of the initialization command transmission table stored in the ROM 54 as a pointer (step S13), and transmits an initialization command for initializing the sub board according to the contents to the sub board. Processing is executed (step S14). As an initialization command, a command indicating an initial symbol displayed on the effect display device 9, an initialization command to the payout control board 37, or the like can be used.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes a random number circuit setting process for initially setting the random number circuit 503 (step S15).

  Then, the CPU 56 executes a timer interrupt setting process for setting a CTC register built in the game control microcomputer 560 so that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every predetermined time (for example, 4 ms) ( Step S16). That is, a value corresponding to, for example, 4 ms is set in a predetermined register (time constant register) as an initial value. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a timer interrupt is periodically taken every 4 ms.

  When the timer interrupt setting is completed, the CPU 56 first disables the interrupt (step S17), executes the initial value random number update process (step S18a) and the display random number update process (step S18b), The interrupt is permitted again (step S19). That is, the CPU 56 sets the interrupt disabled state when the initial value random number update process and the display random number update process are executed, and interrupts enable state when the initial value random number update process and the display random number update process are finished. To.

  The initial value random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number. The initial value random number is a random number for determining the type of jackpot (for example, a jackpot symbol determining random number for determining a special symbol for generating a jackpot or whether to shift the gaming state to a probable state) Initial value of the count value such as a counter (determination random number generation counter) for generating a probability variation determining random number for generating, a normal random number for determining whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol It is a random number for determining the value. A game control process described later (a process in which a game control microcomputer controls itself a game device such as an effect display device 9, a variable winning ball device 15, a ball payout device 97 provided in the gaming machine, or When the count value of the determination random number generation counter makes one round in a process of transmitting a command signal to cause another microcomputer to control, or a gaming apparatus control process), an initial value is set in the counter.

  The display random number is a random number for determining the display of the special symbol display 8. In this embodiment, as a display random number, a random number for determining a variation pattern for determining a variation pattern of a special symbol, or a random number for determining a reach for determining whether or not to reach when a big hit is not generated, is used. Used. The display random number update process is a process for updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number.

  In addition, when the display random number update process is executed, the interrupt disabled state is executed by the display random number update process and the initial value random number update process also in the timer interrupt process described later (that is, the timer This is because the same process is executed in steps S26 and S27 of the interrupt process), so as to avoid conflict with the process in the timer interrupt process. That is, if a timer interrupt is generated during the processing of steps S18a and S18b and the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number and the display random number is updated during the timer interrupt processing, The continuity of values may be impaired. However, such an inconvenience does not occur if the interrupt is prohibited during the processing of steps S18a and S18b.

  Next, the timer interrupt process will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the timer interrupt process. When a timer interrupt occurs during execution of the main process, specifically, in a period during which interruption is permitted during execution of the loop process of steps S17 to S19, the CPU 56 of the game control microcomputer 560 A timer interrupt process that is activated in response to the occurrence of a timer interrupt is executed. In the timer interrupt process, the CPU 56 first executes a power-off process (power-off detection process) that detects whether or not a power-off signal has been output (whether the power-on signal has been turned on) (step S20). Then, the CPU 56 inputs detection signals of switches such as the gate switch 32a, the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 through the switch circuit 58, and detects the input of each switch. (Switch process: Step S21). Specifically, if the state of the input port for inputting the detection signal of each switch is ON, the value of the switch timer provided corresponding to each switch is incremented by one.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes a display control process for performing display control of the special symbol display 8, the normal symbol display 10, the special symbol hold storage display 18, and the normal symbol hold storage display 41 (step S22). For the special symbol display 8 and the normal symbol display 10, control for outputting a drive signal to each display is executed according to the contents of the output buffer set in steps S36 and S37.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a winning notification process for detecting the occurrence of an abnormal winning at the big winning opening and performing an abnormal winning notification (step S24).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of each counter for generating a random number for determination such as a random number for determination per ordinary symbol used for game control (determination random number update process: step S25). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the initial value random number (initial value random number update process: step S26). Further, the CPU 56 performs a process of updating the count value of the counter for generating the display random number (display random number update process: step S27).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs special symbol process processing (step S28). In the special symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to a special symbol process flag for controlling the pachinko gaming machine 1 in a predetermined order according to the gaming state. The value of the special symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state. Further, normal symbol process processing is performed (step S29). In the normal symbol process, the corresponding process is selected and executed according to the normal symbol process flag for controlling the display state of the normal symbol display 10 in a predetermined order. The value of the normal symbol process flag is updated during each process according to the gaming state.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a process of transmitting an effect control command related to the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the special symbol to the effect control microcomputer 100 (effect symbol command control process: step S30). It should be noted that the fact that the variation of the effect symbol is synchronized with the variation of the special symbol means that the variation time (variable display period) is the same.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes predetermined main-side error processing (step S30A). In the main-side error process, when the pachinko gaming machine 1 detects a predetermined error (magnet, radio wave, vibration), an error notification is given and the timer update process shown in FIG. 41 (b) is started. In this timer update process, the error notification is canceled when a predetermined error time (in this example, 5 minutes) elapses. Specifically, the counter initial value is set to 0, and the timer initial value is set to 3000 (that is, 5 minutes = 300 seconds divided by the expiration time of the counter of 100 ms). (S1011), it is determined whether or not the count number of the counter has reached the predetermined value 25 (S1012). If it has not reached (NO), the process is terminated, and if it has reached (YES), the counter is set. The initial value is returned (S1013), the timer is decremented by -1 (S1014), and it is determined whether or not the timer is 0 (S1015). If the timer is not 0 (NO), the process is terminated. If 0 (YES), the error notification is canceled (S1016), and the process is terminated. According to this, since the error time data is updated by the timer as 2 bytes, and the time is updated by using a counter for 1 byte separately, the time that can be measured as compared with the case where only the timer is used. Can be made longer, and the data amount of the error time can be prevented from increasing.

  Here, the game control microcomputer 560 is connected to a magnet sensor, a radio wave sensor, and a vibration sensor (not shown), respectively. A detection signal output when a radio wave is detected and a detection signal output when abnormal vibration is detected by a vibration sensor are input to predetermined terminals, respectively. For example, based on the input of these detection signals, the CPU 56 sets an initial value (for example, 3000) corresponding to a predetermined error time (for example, 300 seconds) in the timer and the effect control micro as described above. By transmitting an error start command to the computer 100 (starting error notification), the production control microcomputer 100 receiving the command outputs a predetermined warning sound from the speaker 27 via the audio output board 70, Inform the surroundings of the occurrence of the error. The CPU 56 updates the counter every time the 4 ms timer interrupt process is executed (the timer is also updated when the counter reaches a predetermined value), and when the timer times out (when the timer reaches 0), the effect control microcomputer An error end command is transmitted to 100 (end of error notification), and the production control microcomputer 100 that has received the command stops outputting a predetermined warning sound.

  Note that the game control microcomputer 560 may perform error notification by performing a predetermined display on a display connected to the game control microcomputer 560. For example, the first special symbol hold storage display You may make it alert | report the generation | occurrence | production of an error by performing control which blinks all the indicator 18a and the 2nd special symbol storage memory display 18b.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs an information output process for outputting data such as a start port signal supplied to the hall management computer, a symbol determination number 1 signal, a symbol determination number 2 signal, a jackpot 1 to 3 signal, a time reduction signal, and the like. (Step S31). Further, in the information output process, the CPU 56 may output an error signal when an error time set in the timer remains (when the timer has not timed out). According to this, management of an external device to which an error signal is input (for example, a gaming device such as a card unit or a call lamp device provided corresponding to each gaming machine, or a hall management computer that counts gaming information) It is also possible to notify the occurrence of an error in the device.

  Further, the CPU 56 executes prize ball processing for setting the number of prize balls based on detection signals from the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 (step S32). Specifically, the payout control micro mounted on the payout control board 37 in response to the winning detection based on any one of the first start port switch 13a, the second start port switch 14a and the count switch 23 being turned on. A payout control command (prize ball number signal) indicating the number of prize balls is output to the computer. The payout control microcomputer drives the ball payout device 97 in accordance with a payout control command indicating the number of winning balls.

  In addition, a test terminal process, which is a process for outputting a test signal for enabling the control state of the gaming machine to be confirmed outside the gaming machine, is executed (step S33). In this embodiment, a RAM area (output port buffer) corresponding to the output state of the output port is provided, but the CPU 56 outputs the contents related to the solenoid in the RAM area of the output port 0 to the output port. (Step S34: Output processing). And CPU56 performs the memory | storage process which checks the increase / decrease in a pending | holding memory | storage number (step S35).

  Further, the CPU 56 performs special symbol display control processing for setting special symbol display control data for effect display of the special symbol in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data according to the value of the special symbol process flag ( Step S36). Further, the CPU 56 performs a normal symbol display control process for setting normal symbol display control data for effect display of the normal symbol in the output buffer for setting the normal symbol display control data according to the value of the normal symbol process flag ( Step S37).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs a status display lamp display process for setting status display control data for displaying each status display lamp in an output buffer for setting the status display control data (step S38). In this case, when the gaming state is also controlled to a high probability state (for example, a probability variation state), the state display control data for displaying the state indicator lamp indicating the high probability state is set in the output buffer. You may make it do.

  Next, the CPU 56 executes predetermined blade opening / closing control processing (step S38A). In the blade opening / closing control process, as described above, the blade 91 is controlled to be in the open state after 10 minutes from the closed state and to be in the closed state after 5 seconds from the open state. Specifically, when the first 4 ms timer interrupt process is executed, the timer update process shown in FIG. 41 (c) is performed with the counter initial value 0 and the timer initial value 6000 (that is, the release interval 10 minutes = 600 seconds). The value is calculated by dividing the counter by the expiration time of 100 ms). First, the counter is incremented by 1 (S1021), and whether or not the count value of the counter has reached the predetermined value of 25 is determined. If it has not been reached (NO), the processing is terminated. If it has been reached (YES), the counter is reset to the initial value (S1023), the timer is decremented by 1 (S1024), and the timer is 0. It is determined whether or not there is (S1025). If the timer is not 0 (NO), the process is terminated. If the timer is 0 (YES), control is performed to open the blade 91 (S1026). 50 is set (i.e. 5 seconds open time, divided by the expiration time 100ms counter) (S1027), the process ends. According to this, since the data of the release interval is updated by the timer as 2 bytes, and the time is updated by using a counter for 1 byte separately, the time that can be measured as compared with the case of using only the timer Can be made long, and the data amount of the open interval can be prevented from increasing.

  When the timer initial value 50 is set in S1027, the timer update process shown in FIG. 41 (d) starts, and the counter is first incremented by 1 (S1031), and the count number of the counter reaches 25 which is the predetermined value. (S1032), if not reached (NO), the process is terminated, and if reached (YES), the counter is reset to the initial value (S1033), the timer is decremented by 1 (S1034), It is determined whether or not the timer is 0 (S1035). If the timer is not 0 (NO), the process is terminated. If the timer is 0 (YES), the blade 91 is closed (S1036). Then, 6000 is set as the timer initial value (S1037), and the process is terminated. When the timer initial value 6000 is set in S1037, the timer update process shown in FIG. 41 (c) starts, and the timer update process shown in FIGS. 41 (c) and (d) is repeated thereafter. This timer measures the operation time (opening interval and opening time) for operating the movable object (blade 91) provided in the game area.

  Thereafter, when completing the blade opening / closing control process of S38A, the CPU 56 sets the interrupt permitted state (step S39) and ends the process.

  With the above control, in this embodiment, the game control process is started every 4 ms. The game control process corresponds to the processes in steps S21 to S39 (excluding steps S31 and 33) in the timer interrupt process. In this embodiment, the game control process is executed by the timer interrupt process. However, in the timer interrupt process, for example, only a flag indicating that an interrupt has occurred is set, and the game control process is performed by the main process. May be executed.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is changed after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. There may be a case where a predetermined combination of effects that does not reach reach is stopped and displayed without reaching reach. Such a variable display mode of the effect symbol is referred to as a variable display mode of “non-reach” (also referred to as “normally shift”) in a case where the variable display result is a loss symbol.

  When the shifted symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the effect display device 9, the variable display state of the effect symbol is started after the variable display of the effect symbol is started. After reaching the reach state, a reach effect is executed, and a combination of predetermined effect symbols that do not eventually become a jackpot symbol may be stopped and displayed. Such a variable display result of the effect design is referred to as a variable display mode of “reach” (also referred to as “reach out”) when the variable display result is “out of”.

  In this embodiment, when the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b, the reach effect is executed after the variable display state of the effect symbol becomes the reach state. Finally, the effect symbols are all stopped and displayed in the “left”, “middle”, and “right” symbol display areas 9L, 9C, and 9R in the effect display device 9.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a variation pattern of the effect symbol prepared in advance. As shown in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, the non-reach PA 1-1 to the non-reach are used as the variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the effect design is “non-reach”. A variation pattern of reach PA1-4 is prepared. Further, normal PA2-1 to normal PA2-2, normal PB2-1 to normal PB2-2 are variations patterns corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out of” and the variable display mode of the effect symbol is “reach”. Fluctuation patterns of Super PA3-1 to Super PA3-2 and Super PC3-1 and Super PB3-1 to Super PB3-2 are prepared. Note that, as shown in FIG. 7, re-variation is performed once for the variation pattern of the non-reach PA 1-4 that is used when the reach is not performed and is accompanied by a pseudo-continuous effect. Of the variation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-rendition, when normal PB2-1 is used, re-variation is performed once. The non-reach PA1-2 variation pattern used when not reaching is a variation pattern for shortening variation, and the variation time of the effect design is shortened to a short time (1.5 seconds in this example). . Of the variation patterns that are used for reaching and have a pseudo-continuous effect, when normal PB2-2 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Further, among the variation patterns that are used for reaching and have a pseudo-continuous effect, when the super PA 3-1 to the super PA 3-2 and the super PC 3-1 are used, the re-variation is performed three times. Note that the re-variation means that the variable display of the effect symbol is executed again after temporarily stopping the effect symbol that is once deviated from the start of the variable display of the effect symbol until the display result is derived and displayed. .

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, normal PA2-3 to normal PA2-4 and normal PB2-3 to normal are used as the variation patterns corresponding to the case where the variable symbol display result of the special symbol is a big hit symbol. Variation patterns of PB2-4, super PA3-3 to super PA3-4, super PC3-2, super PB3-3 to super PB3-4 are prepared.

  Moreover, as shown in FIG. 7, when normal PB2-3 is used among the fluctuation patterns accompanied by the pseudo-continuous effects, re-variation is performed once. Of the fluctuation patterns used for reaching and accompanied by pseudo-continuous effects, when normal PB2-4 is used, re-variation is performed twice. Further, among the variation patterns that are used for reaching and have a pseudo-continuous effect, when the super PA 3-3 to the super PA 3-4 and the super PC 3-2 are used, the re-variation is performed three times.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, when the variation time is fixedly determined according to the type of reach (for example, the variation time is 32 in the case of Super Reach A with a pseudo-ream). In the case of Super Reach A without pseudo-ream, the fluctuation time is fixed at 22.80 seconds). For example, even in the case of the same type of Super Reach Depending on the total number of pending storage, the variation time may be varied. For example, even with the same type of super reach, the variation time may be shortened as the total number of pending storage increases. Also, for example, even in the case of the same type of super reach, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the first reserved memory number. When the variable display of the two special symbols is performed, the variable time may be varied according to the second reserved memory number. In this case, a separate determination table is prepared for each value of the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number (for example, the variation pattern type determination table for the reserved memory numbers 0 to 2 and the reserved memory numbers 3 and 4). For example, a determination table may be selected according to the value of the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number, and the change time may be varied.

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern of the super PC 3-1 is prepared as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “out” and the variable display mode of the effect symbol is “reach”. A variation pattern of the super PC 3-2 is prepared as a variation pattern corresponding to the case where the variable display result is “big hit”. These are all variation patterns accompanied by the effect of Super Reach C, and are variation patterns corresponding to the case where the variation time of the special symbol is 300 seconds.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing each random number. Each random number is used as follows.
(1) Random 1 (MR1): Determines the type of jackpot (15R probability variation big hit, 4R probability variation big hit, which will be described later) (for jackpot type determination)
(2) Random 2 (MR2): The type (type) of the variation pattern is determined (for variation pattern type determination)
(3) Random 3 (MR3): A variation pattern (variation time) is determined (for variation pattern determination)
(4) Random 4 (MR4): Determines whether or not to generate a hit based on a normal symbol (for normal symbol hit determination)
(5) Random 5 (MR5): Determine the initial value of random 4 (for determining the initial value of random 4)

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern is first determined using the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and then the variation pattern determined using the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). One of the variation patterns included in the pattern type is determined. Thus, in this embodiment, the variation pattern is determined by a two-stage lottery process.

  The variation pattern type is a group of a plurality of variation patterns according to the characteristics of the variation mode. For example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by reach type, and include a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with normal reach, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with super reach A, and a variation pattern with super reach B. It may be divided into a variation pattern type and a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with super reach C. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns are grouped by the number of re-variations of pseudo-continuations, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern without pseudo-ream, a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of one re-variation, It may be divided into a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of two variations and a variation pattern type including a variation pattern of three variations. Further, for example, a plurality of variation patterns may be grouped according to the presence or absence of a specific effect such as a pseudo-ream or a slip effect.

  In step S25 in the game control process shown in FIG. 6, the game control microcomputer 560 uses a counter for generating the jackpot type determination random number (1) and the random number for determination per ordinary symbol (4). Count up (add 1). That is, they are determination random numbers, and other random numbers are display random numbers (random 2, random 3) or initial value random numbers (random 5). In addition, in order to improve a game effect, you may use random numbers other than said random number. In this embodiment, a random number generated by hardware incorporated in the game control microcomputer 560 (or hardware external to the game control microcomputer 560) is used as the jackpot determination random number. Note that a software random number instead of a hardware random number may be used as the jackpot determination random number.

  FIG. 9A is an explanatory diagram showing a jackpot determination table. The jackpot determination table is a collection of data stored in the ROM 54 and is a table in which a jackpot determination value to be compared with the random R is set. The jackpot determination table includes a normal-time jackpot determination table used in a normal state (that is, a gaming state that is not a probability change state) and a probability change jackpot determination table used in a probability change state. Each numerical value described in the left column of FIG. 9 (A) is set in the normal jackpot determination table, and each numerical value described in the right column of FIG. 9 (A) is set in the probability variation big hit determination table. Is set. The numerical value described in FIG. 9A is a jackpot determination value.

  The CPU 56 extracts the count value of the random number circuit 503 at a predetermined time and sets the extracted value as the value of the big hit determination random number (random R). The big hit determination random number is shown in FIG. If it matches any of the big hit determination values, it is decided to make a big hit (15R probability variation big hit, 4R probability variation big hit, which will be described later) for the special symbol. Note that “probability” shown in FIG. 9A indicates the probability (ratio) of a big hit. Further, deciding whether or not to win a jackpot means deciding whether or not to shift to the jackpot gaming state, but the stop symbol in the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b is determined. It also means deciding whether or not to make a jackpot symbol.

  FIGS. 9B and 9C are explanatory diagrams showing jackpot type determination tables 131 a and 131 b stored in the ROM 54. Among these, FIG. 9 (B) determines the jackpot type using the holding memory based on the game ball winning the first start winning opening 13 (that is, when the first special symbol variation display is performed). This is a jackpot type determination table (for the first special symbol) 131a. Further, FIG. 9C shows a case where the jackpot type is determined using the holding memory based on the game ball having won the second start winning opening 14 (that is, when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed). Is a jackpot type determination table (for the second special symbol) 131b.

  The jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, based on a random number (random 1) for determining the jackpot type, the jackpot type is set to “15R probability variable big hit”, It is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of “4R probability variation big hit”. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C, 10 determination values are assigned to “15R probability variation big hit” in the big hit type determination table 131a (40 minutes). Is determined to be a 15R probability variation jackpot at a rate of 10), whereas 30 judgment values are assigned to the “15R probability variation jackpot” in the jackpot type determination table 131b (ratio of 30/40) Will be described as 15R probability variation big hit). Therefore, in this embodiment, the start prize is given to the second start prize port 14 and the second special symbol is displayed rather than the case where the first special symbol variation display is executed after the start prize is given to the first start prize slot 13. When the variable display is executed, the ratio determined as “15R probability variation big hit” is higher.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C, there are “15R probability variation big hit” and “4R probability variation big hit” as big hit types. In this embodiment, the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game is two types of 15 rounds and four rounds, but the number of rounds executed in the jackpot game is shown in this embodiment. Not limited to those. For example, there may be provided a 10R probability variable jackpot that is controlled to 10 round jackpot game, a 7R probability variable jackpot that is controlled to 7 round jackpot game, and a 5R probability variable jackpot that is controlled to 5 round jackpot game. In this embodiment, the case where there are two types of jackpot types, “15R probability variation jackpot” and “4R probability variation jackpot”, is not limited to two types, but for example, three or more types of jackpot types are provided. You may do it. Conversely, the jackpot type may be less than two types, for example, only one type may be provided as the jackpot type.

  The “15R probability variable big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to the big round gaming state of 15 rounds and shifts to the probability changed state after the big hit gaming state is finished. Are also migrated). Then, until the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times (50 times), the probability variation state and the time reduction state continue. Hereinafter, the gaming state controlled to the probability variation state and the short time state may be referred to as “high probability high base state”, and the state that is not controlled to either the probability variation state or the short time state may be referred to as “low probability low base state”. .

  “4R probability variable big hit” is a big hit that is controlled to a four-round big hit gaming state, and shifts to the probability changed state after the big hit gaming state is finished. Are also migrated). Then, until the variable display is executed a predetermined number of times (50 times), the probability variation state and the time reduction state continue.

  In the jackpot type determination tables 131a and 131b, numerical values to be compared with a random value of 1, and determination values (big hit type determination values) corresponding to each of “15R probability variation big hit” and “4R probability variation big hit” are set. ing. When the value of random 1 matches any of the jackpot type determination values, the CPU 56 determines the jackpot type as a type corresponding to the matched jackpot type determination value.

  FIGS. 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams showing the big hit variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B. The jackpot variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B, when it is determined that the variable display result is a jackpot symbol, the variation pattern type is determined according to the determination result of the jackpot type and a random number for determining the variation pattern type. It is a table that is referred to in order to determine one of a plurality of types based on (Random 2).

  Each of the big hit variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B includes numerical values (determination values) to be compared with random number (random 2) values for variation pattern type determination, which are normal CA3-1 to normal CA3-2, A determination value corresponding to one of the variation pattern types of the super CA3-3 is set.

  For example, the big hit variation pattern type determination table 132A shown in FIG. 10A used when the big hit type is “4R probability variable big hit” and the big hit type shown in FIG. The allocation of determination values for the variation pattern types of normal CA3-1 to normal CA3-2 and super CA3-3 is different from the big hit variation pattern type determination table 132B shown in FIG.

  As described above, when the big hit variation pattern type determination tables 132A and 132B selected according to the big hit type are compared, the assignment of the determination value to each fluctuation pattern type is different according to the big hit type. Also, determination values are assigned to different variation pattern types depending on the jackpot type. Therefore, different variation pattern types can be determined according to the determination result of whether the big hit type is a plurality of types, and the ratio determined for the same variation pattern type can be varied.

  FIGS. 11A to 11C are explanatory diagrams showing the deviation variation pattern type determination tables 135A to 135C. Among these, FIG. 11A shows the variation pattern type determination table 135A for loss used when the gaming state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is less than 3. FIG. 11B shows a variation pattern type determination table 135B for loss that is used when the gaming state is the normal state and the total number of pending storages is 3 or more. Further, FIG. 11C shows a loss variation pattern type determination table 135C used when the gaming state is a probability variation state. The deviation variation pattern type determination tables 135A to 135C have a plurality of variation pattern types based on a random number (random 2) for variation pattern type determination when it is determined that the variable display result is a loss symbol. It is a table that is referred to in order to determine any of the above.

  In the example shown in FIG. 11, the case where the separate variation pattern type determination tables 135 </ b> B and 135 </ b> C are used for the case where the gaming state is the probability variation state and the case where the total number of pending storages is 3 or more is shown. The common deviation variation pattern type determination table may be used for the case of the probability variation state and the case where the total pending storage number is 3 or more. In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 11C, a case is shown in which one variation variation pattern type determination table 135C for probability variation is used. A plurality of corresponding deviation variation pattern determination tables (tables with different ratios of determination values) may be used.

  In this embodiment, when the gaming state is the normal state, the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135A used when the total pending storage number is less than 3 and the total pending storage number is 3 or more. In this example, two types of tables are used, namely, the deviation variation pattern type determination table 135B. However, the method of dividing the variation variation pattern type determination table is not limited to that shown in this embodiment. For example, a separate deviation variation pattern type determination table may be provided for each value of the total pending storage number (that is, for the total pending storage number 0, for the total pending storage number 1, for the total pending storage number 2) , The deviation variation pattern type determination table for the total pending storage number 3, for the total pending storage number 4... May be used separately). Further, for example, a deviation variation pattern type determination table corresponding to a combination of a plurality of other values stored in the total number of pending storages may be used. For example, a deviation variation pattern type determination table for the total pending storage number 0-2, the total pending storage number 3, the total pending storage number 4,... May be used.

  Further, in this embodiment, a case is shown in which a plurality of deviation variation pattern type determination tables are provided according to the total number of reserved storages, but deviation variation pattern type determination is performed according to the first and second reserved memory numbers. A plurality of tables may be provided. For example, when the variable display of the first special symbol is performed, a deviation variation pattern type determination table prepared separately for each value of the first reserved memory number may be used (that is, the first reserved memory number). The deviation variation pattern type determination table for 0, for the first reserved memory number, for the first reserved memory number for 2, for the first reserved memory number for three, for the first reserved memory number for four, etc. Each may be used separately). Further, for example, a deviation variation pattern type determination table corresponding to a combination of a plurality of other values of the first reserved storage number may be used. For example, a deviation variation pattern type determination table for the first reserved memory number 0 to 2, the first reserved memory number 3, the first reserved memory number 4, and so on may be used. Even in this case, when the first reserved memory number and the second reserved memory number are large (for example, 3 or more), it may be configured such that a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with a short variation time is easily selected. .

  Each of the deviation variation pattern type determination tables 135A to 135C includes a numerical value (determination value) to be compared with a random number (random 2) value for variation pattern type determination, which is non-reach CA2-1 to non-reach CA2-. 3, a determination value corresponding to any one of the variation pattern types of normal CA2-4 to normal CA2-6 and super CA2-7 is set.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is controlled to the probability changing state, the probability changing variation pattern type determination table shown in FIG. 11C is used. As shown in FIG. 11C, in this embodiment, when the probability variation state is controlled, the variation pattern type of the non-reach CA2-3 including the variation pattern of the non-reach PA1-2 of the shortening variation is changed. Selectable.

  It should be noted that the variation pattern type determination table for probability variation shown in FIG. 11C is selected only when the variation display of the second special symbol is performed when the probability variation state is controlled, and the first special symbol is selected. When the fluctuation display is performed, the fluctuation time may not be shortened by using the normal deviation fluctuation pattern type determination table shown in FIG. By doing so, the variation display of the first special symbol which is disadvantageous for the player is executed more than the variation display of the second special symbol, and the player cannot receive the benefit of the advantageous state. Can be prevented.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the common big hit variation pattern type determination table is used regardless of the current gaming state. However, is the current gaming state in a probable variation state? Depending on whether it is a normal state, you may make it use the variation pattern type determination table for big hits prepared separately, respectively. In this embodiment, when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the shortening variation pattern type determination table shown in FIG. 11B is selected to determine the variation pattern of the shortening variation. Although the case where it is configured so that there is a case is shown, the total number of reserved memories (the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number may be used) when the variation pattern of the shortening variation can be selected according to the current gaming state ) May be different. For example, when the gaming state is the normal state, when the total number of reserved memory is 3 (or when the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number is 2, for example), The variation pattern type determination table for loss may be selected so that the variation pattern of the shortened variation may be determined. When the gaming state is a probable variation state, even if the total pending storage number is 1 or 2 (Or, for example, even when the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number is smaller 0 or 1), the shortening variation pattern type determination table is selected to determine the variation pattern of the shortening variation. There may be cases.

  FIG. 12A is an explanatory diagram showing a big hit variation pattern determination table 137A stored in the ROM 54. FIG. The jackpot variation pattern determination table 137A is a random number for random pattern determination (random 3) according to the determination result of the jackpot type or variation pattern type when it is determined that the variable display result is “big hit”. This is a table that is referred to in order to determine a variation pattern as one of a plurality of types based on the above. The jackpot variation pattern determination table 137A is a numerical value (determination value) that is compared with the value of a random number for random pattern determination (random 3) according to the variation pattern type. Data (determination value) corresponding to any of a plurality of types of variation patterns corresponding to

  In the example shown in FIG. 12A, as the variation pattern types, normal CA3-1, which is a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with only normal reach, and a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with normal reach and pseudo-continuity are used. A case is shown in which a normal CA 3-2 is classified into a normal CA 3-2 and a super CA 3-3 that is a variation pattern type including a variation pattern with super reach (which may be accompanied by a pseudo-ream).

  FIG. 12B is an explanatory diagram showing a deviation variation pattern determination table 137 </ b> B stored in the ROM 54. The deviation variation pattern determination table 137B is based on a random number (random 3) for variation pattern determination according to the determination result of the variation pattern type when it is determined that the variable display result is “out of range”. It is a table referred to in order to determine any one of a plurality of types of variation patterns. The deviation variation pattern determination table 137B is selected as a usage table according to the determination result of the variation pattern type.

  FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the contents of the effect control command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560. In the example shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, the command 80XX (H) is an effect control command (variation pattern command) for designating a variation pattern of the effect symbol that is variably displayed on the effect display device 9 in response to variable display of the special symbol. (Each corresponding to a variation pattern XX). That is, when a unique number is assigned to each variation pattern that can be used, there is a variation pattern command corresponding to each variation pattern specified by the number. “(H)” indicates a hexadecimal number. The effect control command for designating the variation pattern is also a command for designating the start of variation. Therefore, when the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the command 80XX (H), the effect display device 9 controls the effect display device 9 to start variable display of the effect symbols.

  Commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are effect control commands indicating whether or not to make a big hit and the type of big hit. The effect control microcomputer 100 determines the display results of the effect symbols in response to the reception of the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H), so the commands 8C01 (H) to 8C03 (H) are referred to as display result designation commands.

  Command 8D01 (H) is an effect control command (first symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the first special symbol is started. Command 8D02 (H) is an effect control command (second symbol variation designation command) indicating that variable display (variation) of the second special symbol is started. The first symbol variation designation command and the second symbol variation designation command may be collectively referred to as a special symbol specifying command (or symbol variation designation command). Note that information indicating whether to start variable display of the first special symbol or variable display of the second special symbol may be included in the variation pattern command.

  Command 8F00 (H) is an effect control command (symbol confirmation designation command) indicating that the variable display (fluctuation) of the fourth symbol is terminated and the display result (stop symbol) is derived and displayed. When receiving the symbol confirmation designation command, the effect control microcomputer 100 ends the variable display (fluctuation) of the fourth symbol and derives and displays the display result.

  Command 9000 (H) is an effect control command (initialization designation command: power-on designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is started. Command 9200 (H) is an effect control command (power failure recovery designation command) transmitted when power supply to the gaming machine is resumed. When the power supply to the gaming machine is started, the gaming control microcomputer 560 transmits a power failure recovery designation command if data is stored in the backup RAM, and if not, initialization designation is performed. Send a command.

  Command 9F00 (H) is an effect control command (customer waiting demonstration designation command) for designating a customer waiting demonstration.

  Commands A001 to A002 (H) are effect control commands for displaying a fanfare screen, that is, designating the start of a big hit game (big hit start designation command: fanfare designation command). In this embodiment, depending on the type of jackpot, either a jackpot start 1 designation command or a jackpot start 2 designation command is used. Specifically, if it is “15R probability variation big hit”, the big hit start 1 designation command (A001 (H)) is used, and if it is “4R probability variation big hit”, the big hit start 2 designation command (A002 (H)) ) Is used.

  The command A1XX (H) is an effect control command (special command during opening of a special winning opening) indicating a display of the number of times (round) indicated by XX while the special winning opening is open. Since the value specifying the round is set in the EXT data for each round, and the command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted, a different command for opening a special prize opening is transmitted for each round. A2XX (H) is an effect control command (designation command after opening the big winning opening) indicating the closing of the big winning opening for the number of times (round) indicated by XX. In addition, since the value specifying the round is set in the EXT data for each round and the designation command after opening the special winning opening is transmitted, a different designation command after opening the special winning opening is transmitted for each round.

  The commands A301 (H) and A302 (H) display a jackpot end screen, that is, an effect control command for specifying the end of the jackpot game (a jackpot end 1 designation command: an ending 1 designation command, a jackpot end 2 designation command: an ending) 2 designation command). The big hit end 1 designation command (A301 (H)) is used when the big hit game by “15R probability variable big hit” is ended. The big hit end 2 designation command (A302 (H)) is used when the big hit game by “4R probability variable big hit” is ended.

  Command B000 (H) is an effect control command (normal state background designation command) for designating background display when the gaming state is the normal state. The command B001 (H) is an effect control command (probability change state background designation command) for designating a background display when the gaming state is the probability change state.

  Command C000 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number addition designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has increased by one. Command C100 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number addition designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number has increased by one. Command C200 (H) is an effect control command (first reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the first reserved memory number has decreased by one. Command C300 (H) is an effect control command (second reserved memory number subtraction designation command) that specifies that the second reserved memory number has decreased by one.

  The command D0XX (H) is an effect control command (residual number of times designation command) that designates that the number of times of variable display of the identification information (so-called remaining number of times) until the probability variation state ends is the number indicated by XX.

  The effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) mounted on the effect control board 80 receives the effect control command described above from the game control micro computer 560 mounted on the main board 31. Then, the display state of the effect display device 9 is changed according to the contents shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the display state of the lamp is changed, or the sound number data is output to the audio output board 70. To do.

  For example, the game control microcomputer 560 designates the variation pattern of the effect symbol every time there is a start prize and variable display of the special symbol is started on the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b. The variation pattern command and the display result designation command are transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  In this embodiment, the effect control command has a 2-byte structure, the first byte represents MODE (command classification), and the second byte represents EXT (command type). The first bit (bit 7) of the MODE data is always set to “1”, and the first bit (bit 7) of the EXT data is always set to “0”. Note that such a command form is an example, and other command forms may be used. For example, a control command composed of 1 byte or 3 bytes or more may be used.

  In addition, as the transmission method of the effect control command, the effect control command data is output from the main board 31 to the effect control board 80 via the relay board 77 by the eight parallel signal lines of the effect control signals CD0 to CD7, In addition to the effect control command data, a method of outputting a pulse-shaped (rectangular wave-shaped) capture signal (effect control INT signal) for instructing capture of the effect control command data is used. The 8-bit effect control command data of the effect control command is output in synchronization with the effect control INT signal. The effect control microcomputer 100 mounted on the effect control board 80 detects that the effect control INT signal has risen, and starts a 1-byte data capturing process through an interrupt process.

  In the example shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, the variable pattern command and the display result designation command are displayed as variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the first special symbol on the first special symbol display 8 a and the second special symbol. An effect display that can be used in common with the variable display (variation) of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation of the second special symbol on the symbol display 8b, and that produces an effect with the variable display of the first special symbol and the second special symbol. It is possible to prevent an increase in the types of commands transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 to the effect control microcomputer 100 when controlling the effect parts such as the device 9.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a special symbol process (step S26) program executed by the game control microcomputer 560 (specifically, the CPU 56) mounted on the main board 31. As described above, in the special symbol process, a process for controlling the first special symbol display 8a or the second special symbol display 8b and the special winning opening is executed. In the special symbol process, the CPU 56 detects that the first start port switch 13a for detecting that the game ball has won the first start winning port 13 or that the game ball has won the second start winning port 14. If the second start opening switch 14a is turned on, that is, if a start winning to the first start winning opening 13 or a start winning to the second start winning opening 14 has occurred, the start opening switch passing process is performed. Execute (Steps S311 and S312). Then, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed. If the first start winning port switch 13a or the second start port switch 14a is not turned on, any one of steps S300 to S307 is performed according to the internal state.

  The processes in steps S300 to S307 are as follows.

  Special symbol normal processing (step S300): Executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is zero. When the game control microcomputer 560 is in a state where variable display of the special symbol can be started, the game control microcomputer 560 checks the number of numerical data stored in the reserved storage number buffer (total number of reserved storage). The stored number of numerical data stored in the pending storage number buffer can be confirmed by the count value of the total pending storage number counter. If the count value of the total pending storage number counter is not 0, it is determined whether or not the display result of the variable display of the first special symbol or the second special symbol is a big hit. In case of big hit, set big hit flag. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (1 in this example) according to step S301. The jackpot flag is reset when the jackpot game ends.

  Fluctuation pattern setting process (step S301): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 1. Also, the variation pattern is determined, and the variation time in the variation pattern (variable display time: the time from the start of variable display until the display result is derived and displayed (stop display)) is defined as the variation display variation time of the special symbol. Decide to do. Also, a variable time timer for measuring the special symbol variable time is started. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (2 in this example) corresponding to step S302.

  Display result designation command transmission process (step S302): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 2. Control for transmitting a display result designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (3 in this example) corresponding to step S303.

  Special symbol changing process (step S303): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 3. When the variation time of the variation pattern selected in the variation pattern setting process elapses (the variation time timer set in step S301 times out, that is, the variation time timer value becomes 0), the design control microcomputer 100 determines the symbol. Control to transmit the specified command is performed, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to step S304. The effect control microcomputer 100 controls the effect display device 9 to stop the fourth symbol when receiving the symbol confirmation designation command transmitted by the game control microcomputer 560.

  In this way, the fluctuation display of the fluctuation time according to the fluctuation pattern selected in the fluctuation pattern setting process is executed. In the measurement of the fluctuation time, the fluctuation time timer is set and the fluctuation time timer is set. The display result is derived and displayed when the timeout expires. Specifically, in S103 of the fluctuation pattern setting process shown in FIG. 20 described later, the special figure fluctuation time shown in FIG. 7 (for example, if the fluctuation pattern is non-reach PA1-1, the special figure fluctuation time is 5.80 seconds. 58) divided by the expiration time of the counter 100 ms is set in the timer, and whenever the special symbol variation processing is executed, the timer update processing shown in FIG. S1001), it is determined whether or not the count number of the counter has reached the predetermined value 25 (S1002). If it has not reached (NO), the process is terminated, and if it has reached (YES), the counter is initialized. The value is returned (S1003), the timer is decremented by -1 (S1004), it is determined whether or not the timer is 0 (S1005), and if the timer is not 0 (NO), the process is terminated. If it is 0 (YES), the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the special symbol stop process in step S304 (4 in this example) (S1006), and the symbol confirmation designation command is sent to the effect control microcomputer 100. Is transmitted, and the process is terminated. According to this, since the fluctuation pattern data is updated by the timer as 2 bytes, and the time is updated by using a counter for 1 byte separately, the time that can be measured as compared with the case of using only the timer. Can be made longer and the data amount of the fluctuation pattern can be prevented from increasing.

  Special symbol stop process (step S304): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. When the big hit flag is set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. If the big hit flag is not set, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S300 (0 in this example). In this embodiment, as will be described later, a special symbol display control for stopping and displaying a special symbol stop symbol in the special symbol display control process based on the fact that the value of the special symbol process flag is 4. The data is set in the output buffer for setting the special symbol display control data, and the special symbol stop symbol is actually stopped and displayed according to the setting contents of the output buffer in the display control processing in step S22.

  Preliminary winning opening opening process (step S305): This is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 5. In the pre-opening process for the big prize opening, control for opening the big prize opening is performed. Specifically, a counter (for example, a counter that counts the number of game balls that have entered the big prize opening) is initialized and the solenoid 21 is driven to open the big prize opening. Also, the execution time of the special prize opening opening process is set by the timer, and the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S306 (6 in this example). The pre-opening process for the big winning opening is executed for each round, but when the first round is started, the pre-opening process for the big winning opening is also a process for starting the big hit game.

  Large winning opening opening process (step S306): This process is executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 6. A control for transmitting an effect control command for round display during the big hit gaming state to the effect control microcomputer 100, a process for confirming the completion of the closing condition of the big prize opening, and the like are performed. If the closing condition for the special prize opening is satisfied and there are still remaining rounds, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (5 in this example) corresponding to step S305. When all the rounds are completed, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value corresponding to step S307 (7 in this example).

  Big hit end process (step S307): executed when the value of the special symbol process flag is 7. Control is performed to cause the microcomputer 100 for effect control to perform display control for notifying the player that the big hit gaming state has ended. Further, a process for setting a flag (for example, a probability variation flag) indicating a gaming state is performed. Then, the internal state (special symbol process flag) is updated to a value (0 in this example) corresponding to step S300.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the start-port switch passing process in step S312. In the start port switch passing process, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the first start port switch 13a is in an ON state (step S211). If the first start port switch 13a is not on, the process proceeds to step S217. If the first start port switch 13a is on, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the first reserved memory number has reached the upper limit (specifically, the first reserved memory for counting the first reserved memory number). It is confirmed whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 (step S212). If the first reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step S217.

  If the first reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S213), and the value of the total reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S214). Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in the storage area in the first reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 17) (step S215). . In the process of step S215, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern A random number for determination (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. Note that the variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) and the variation pattern determination random number (random 3) are not extracted and stored in advance in the storage area in the start port switch passing process (at the time of start winning). You may make it extract at the time of the change start of 1 special symbol. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 directly extracts a value from a variation pattern type determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2) in a variation pattern setting process to be described later, A value may be directly extracted from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a determination random number (random 3).

  FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of an area (hold buffer) for storing random numbers and the like corresponding to the hold memory. As shown in FIG. 17, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value (4 in this example) of the first reserved storage number is secured in the first reserved storage buffer. In addition, a storage area corresponding to the upper limit value of the second reserved storage number (4 in this example) is secured in the second reserved storage buffer. In this embodiment, the first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer include a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation A random number for pattern type determination (random 2) and a random number for variation pattern determination (random 3) are stored. The first reserved storage buffer and the second reserved storage buffer are formed in the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the first reserved memory number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S216).

  Next, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second start port switch 14a is on (step S217). If the second start port switch 14a is not in the ON state, the process is terminated as it is. If the second start port switch 14a is in the ON state, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the second reserved memory number has reached the upper limit value (specifically, the second reserved memory for counting the second reserved memory number). Whether or not the value of the number counter is 4 is confirmed (step S218). If the second reserved storage number has reached the upper limit value, the processing is terminated as it is.

  If the second reserved memory number has not reached the upper limit value, the CPU 56 increases the value of the second reserved memory number counter by 1 (step S219), and the value of the aggregate reserved memory number counter for counting the total reserved memory number Is increased by 1 (step S220). Next, the CPU 56 extracts values from the random number circuit 503 and a counter for generating software random numbers, and executes a process of storing them in a storage area in the second reserved storage buffer (see FIG. 17) (step S221). . In the process of step S221, a random R (big hit determination random number) that is a hardware random number, a big hit type determination random number (random 1) that is a software random number, a variation pattern type determination random number (random 2), and a variation pattern A random number for determination (random 3) is extracted and stored in the storage area. It should be noted that the random number for random pattern determination (random 3) is not extracted and stored in the storage area in advance in the start-port switch passing process (at the time of start winning), but is extracted at the start of the variation of the second special symbol. May be. For example, the game control microcomputer 560 may directly extract a value from a variation pattern determination random number counter for generating a variation pattern determination random number (random 3) in a variation pattern setting process described later.

  Then, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the second reserved memory number addition designation command to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S222).

  18 and 19 are flowcharts showing the special symbol normal process (step S300) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol normal process, the CPU 56 confirms the value of the total number of reserved storage (step S51). Specifically, the count value of the total pending storage number counter is confirmed. If the total pending storage number is 0, if the customer waiting demonstration designation command has not yet been transmitted, control is performed to send the customer waiting demonstration designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S51A), and the processing is performed. finish. For example, when the CPU 56 transmits a customer waiting demonstration designation command in step S51A, the CPU 56 sets a customer waiting demonstration designation command transmitted flag indicating that the customer waiting demonstration designation command has been transmitted. When the special symbol normal processing after the next timer interruption is executed after sending the customer waiting demo designation command, the customer waiting demonstration request command is repeatedly set based on the fact that the customer waiting demo designation command transmission completed flag is set. Control should be performed so that the demo designation command is not transmitted. In this case, the customer waiting demonstration designation command transmission completion flag may be reset when the next special symbol variation display is started.

  If the total pending storage number is not 0, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the second pending storage number is 0 (step S52). Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the value of the second reserved memory number counter is zero. If the second reserved memory number is not 0, the CPU 56 has a special symbol pointer (a flag indicating whether the special symbol process is being performed for the first special symbol or the special symbol process is being performed for the second special symbol). Is set to data indicating “second” (step S53). If the second reserved memory number is 0 (that is, only the first reserved memory number is accumulated), the CPU 66 sets data indicating “first” in the special symbol pointer (step S54).

  In this embodiment, by executing the processing of steps S52 to S54, the variation display of the second special symbol is executed with priority over the variation display of the first special symbol. In other words, control is performed so that the second start condition for starting the variable display of the second special symbol is established in preference to the first start condition for starting the variable display of the first special symbol.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads out each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the reserved storage number = 1 indicated by the special symbol pointer in the RAM 55 and stores it in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55 (step S55). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 determines each disturbance stored in the storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = 1 in the first reserved memory number buffer. The numerical value is read and stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 reads each random number value stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = 1 in the second reserved memory number buffer. And stored in the random number buffer area of the RAM 55.

  Then, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the reserved storage number counter indicated by the special symbol pointer, and shifts the contents of each storage area (step S56). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 decrements the count value of the first reserved memory number counter by 1 and saves each storage area in the first reserved memory number buffer. Shift the contents of. When the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the count value of the second reserved memory number counter is decremented by 1, and the contents of each storage area in the second reserved memory number buffer are shifted.

  That is, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 saves the first reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the first reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Are stored in a storage area corresponding to the first reserved memory number = n−1. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, it is stored in the storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n (n = 2, 3, 4) in the second reserved memory number buffer of the RAM 55. Each random number value is stored in a storage area corresponding to the second reserved memory number = n−1.

  Therefore, the order in which each random value stored in each storage area corresponding to each first reserved memory number (or each second reserved memory number) is extracted is always the first reserved memory number (or (Second reserved storage number) = 1, 2, 3, 4 in order.

  Then, the CPU 56 decreases the value of the total pending storage number by one. That is, 1 is subtracted from the count value of the total pending storage number counter (step S58). The CPU 56 stores the value of the total pending storage number counter before the count value is decremented by 1 in a predetermined area of the RAM 55.

  Moreover, CPU56 performs control which transmits a background designation | designated command to the microcomputer 100 for effect control according to the present game state (step S60). In this case, when the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a probability variation state background designation command. Further, if the probability variation flag is not set, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a normal state background designation command.

  In this embodiment, the background designation command is transmitted every time for each variation. For example, it is determined at the start of the variation whether or not the gaming state has changed since the previous variation. Only when the state changes, the background designation command corresponding to the changed gaming state may be transmitted. With such a configuration, the number of transmissions of the background designation command can be reduced, and the processing burden on the game control microcomputer 560 can be reduced.

  Specifically, when the CPU 56 transmits the effect control command to the effect control microcomputer 100, the address of the command transmission table (preliminarily set for each command in the ROM) corresponding to the effect control command is given. Set to pointer. Then, the address of the command transmission table corresponding to the effect control command is set in the pointer, and the effect control command is transmitted in the effect symbol command control process (step S30). In this embodiment, when the variation of the special symbol is started, the effect control microcomputer in the order of the background designation command, the variation pattern command, the display result designation command, and the reserved memory number subtraction designation command for each timer interrupt. 100 will be transmitted. Specifically, when the change of the special symbol is started, first, the background designation command is transmitted, the variation pattern command is transmitted after 4 ms elapses, the display result designation command is transmitted after elapse of 4 ms, and further after 4 ms elapses. A pending storage count subtraction designation command is transmitted. In addition, the symbol variation designation command (the first symbol variation designation command, the second symbol variation designation command) is also transmitted when the special symbol variation starts, but the symbol variation designation command is the same timer interrupt as the variation pattern command. Is transmitted to the production control microcomputer 100.

  In the special symbol normal process, first, data indicating “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first start winning opening 13, that is, “first” indicating that the process is executed for the first special symbol. ”Or“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second special symbol, that is,“ second ”indicating that the process is performed on the second start winning opening 14. Data is set in the special symbol pointer. In the subsequent processing in the special symbol process, processing corresponding to the data set in the special symbol pointer is executed. Therefore, the process of steps S300 to S307 can be shared between the case where the first special symbol is the target and the case where the second special symbol is the target.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads a random R (a jackpot determination random number) from the random number buffer area and executes a jackpot determination module. In this case, the CPU 56 reads out the jackpot determination random numbers extracted in steps S215 and S221 of the start port switch passage processing and stored in advance in the first hold storage buffer and the second hold storage buffer, and performs the jackpot determination. The jackpot determination module is a program that compares a jackpot determination value (see FIG. 9) determined in advance with a jackpot determination random number, and executes a process of determining a jackpot if they match. In other words, this is a program for executing the big hit determination process.

  The jackpot determination process is configured such that when the gaming state is in a probable change state (high probability state), the probability of winning a big hit is higher than in the case where the gaming state is a non-probability change state (normal game state). Specifically, a jackpot determination table (a table in which the numerical value on the right side of FIG. 9A in the ROM 54 is set) in which a large number of jackpot determination values is set in advance, and the number of jackpot determination values are definitely changed. There is provided a normal big hit determination table (a table in which the numerical value on the left side of FIG. 9A in the ROM 54 is set) set to be smaller than the big hit determination table. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the gaming state is a probability variation state. If the gaming state is a probability variation state, the jackpot determination process is performed using the probability variation jackpot determination table, and the gaming state is normal. When in the gaming state, the big hit determination process is performed using the normal big hit determination table. That is, when the value of the big hit determination random number (random R) matches one of the big hit determination values shown in FIG. 9A, the CPU 56 determines that the special symbol is a big hit. If it is determined to be a big hit (step S61), the process proceeds to step S62. Note that deciding whether to win or not is to decide whether or not to shift to the big hit gaming state, but to decide whether or not to stop the special symbol display as a big hit symbol. But there is.

  Note that whether or not the current gaming state is the probability variation state is determined by whether or not the probability variation flag is set. The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be 15R probability variation big hit or 4R probability variation big hit, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game. When the big hit is decided, the special symbol variation display is terminated and the stop symbol is stopped. Is reset at a timing to end or 50 times of special symbol variation display.

  If the value of the jackpot determination random number (random R) does not match any of the jackpot determination values (N in step S61), the CPU 56 proceeds to step S66 as it is.

  In step S62, the CPU 56 sets a big hit flag indicating that it is a big hit. Then, the jackpot type determination table indicated by the special symbol pointer is selected as a table used to determine the jackpot type as one of a plurality of types (step S63). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131a for the first special symbol shown in FIG. 9B. Further, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 selects the jackpot type determination table 131b for the second special symbol shown in FIG. 9C.

  Next, the CPU 56 uses the selected jackpot type determination table to select the type corresponding to the value of the random number (random 1) for determining the big hit type stored in the random number buffer area (“15R probability variable big hit”, “ 4R probability variation jackpot ") is determined as the jackpot type (step S64). In this case, the CPU 56 reads out the jackpot type determination random numbers extracted in steps S215 and S221 of the start port switch passing process and stored in advance in the first hold memory buffer and the second hold memory buffer, and determines the jackpot type. .

  Further, the CPU 56 sets data indicating the determined jackpot type in the jackpot type buffer in the RAM 55 (step S65). For example, when the big hit type is “15R probability variable big hit”, “01” is set as data indicating the big hit type, and when the big hit type is “4R positive variable big hit”, “02” is set as the data indicating the big hit type. Is done.

  Next, the CPU 56 determines a special symbol stop symbol (step S66). Specifically, when the big hit flag is not set, “−” as a special symbol is determined as a stop symbol of the special symbol. When the big hit flag is set, one of the big hit symbols is determined as a special symbol stop symbol according to the determination result of the big hit type. That is, when “15R probability variation big hit” is determined, “7” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol, and when “4R probability variation big hit” is determined, “3” is determined as a special symbol stop symbol.

  In this embodiment, the case where the jackpot type is first determined and the stop symbol of the special symbol corresponding to the determined jackpot type is shown, but the method for determining the jackpot type and the stop symbol of the special symbol is as follows. It is not limited to what is shown in the embodiment. For example, a table in which a special symbol stop symbol and a jackpot type are associated in advance is prepared, and a special symbol stop symbol is first determined based on a random number for determining the big hit type. You may comprise so that a classification may also be determined.

  Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern setting process (step S301) (step S67).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the variation pattern setting process (step S301) in the special symbol process. In the variation pattern setting process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S91). When the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 determines which of the big hit variation pattern type determination tables as a table used to determine the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types according to the big hit type. Is selected (step S92). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  When the big hit flag is not set, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state is set (step S93). The probability variation flag is set when the gaming state is shifted to the probability variation state, and is reset when the probability variation state is terminated. Specifically, it is determined to be 15R probability variation big hit or 4R probability variation big hit, and is set in the process of ending the big hit game. When the big hit is decided, the special symbol variation display is terminated and the stop symbol is stopped. Is reset at the timing of ending or 50 variable display ends. If the probability variation flag is set (Y in step S93), the CPU 56 uses a variation pattern type determination table for deviation for probability variation as a table used to determine one of the plurality of variation pattern types. Select (step S97). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  If the probability variation flag is not set (N in Step S93), the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Step S94). If the total number of pending storages is less than 3 (N in step S94), the CPU 56 uses a normal deviation variation pattern type determination table as a table used to determine one of a plurality of variation pattern types. Is selected (step S95). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  When the total number of pending storages is 3 or more (Y in step S94), the CPU 56 uses the table for determining the variation pattern type as one of a plurality of types as a table used for declining the variation time. A variation pattern type determination table is selected (step S96). Then, control goes to a step S98.

  In this embodiment, when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more by executing the processing of steps S93 to S96, the deviation variation pattern type determination table for variation time reduction is selected. Further, when the gaming state is a probability variation state, a probability variation variation pattern type determination table is selected. In this case, non-reach CA2-3 may be determined as the variation pattern type in the process of step S98 described later, and when the variation pattern type of non-reach CA2-3 is determined, the process changes in step S99. Short reach variation non-reach PA1-2 is determined as a pattern. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the gaming state is the probability variation state or when the total number of pending storages is 3 or more, the variation display of the shortening variation may be performed.

  In this embodiment, the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation used in the probability variation state and the variation pattern type determination table for shortening variation based on the number of reserved storages are different tables. A common table may be used as the variation pattern type determination table for variation.

  Even if the gaming state is a probable change state, if the total number of pending storage is almost 0 (for example, 0, 0, or 1), a change display of a shortened change is performed. It may not be possible. In this case, for example, when the CPU 56 determines Y in step S93, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the total pending storage number is almost zero. A determination table may be selected.

  Next, the CPU 56 reads random 2 (random number for variation pattern type determination) from the random number buffer area (the first reserved storage buffer or the second reserved storage buffer) and selects it in the process of steps S92, S83, S97, S95 or S96. By referring to the table, the variation pattern type is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S98). In the case where the random number 2 (variation pattern type determination random number) is not extracted at the start winning timing, the CPU 56 determines the variation pattern type for generating the random number for variation pattern type determination (random 2). A value may be directly extracted from the random number counter for use, and the variation pattern type may be determined based on the extracted random value.

  Next, based on the determination result of the variation pattern type in step S98, the CPU 56 uses a jackpot variation pattern determination table and a loss variation pattern determination table as tables used to determine one of a plurality of variation patterns. One of them is selected (step S99). Further, the random pattern 3 (random number for variation pattern determination) is read from the random number buffer area (first reserved storage buffer or second reserved storage buffer), and the variation pattern is determined by referring to the variation pattern determination table selected in the process of step S99. Is determined as one of a plurality of types (step S100). When the random number 3 (variation pattern determination random number) is not extracted at the start winning timing, the CPU 56 uses the variation pattern determination random number counter for generating the variation pattern determination random number (random 3). It is also possible to extract the value directly from and to determine the variation pattern based on the extracted random number value.

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit the symbol variation designation command indicated by the special symbol pointer to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S101). Specifically, when the special symbol pointer indicates “first”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a first symbol variation designation command. In addition, when the special symbol pointer indicates “second”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a second symbol variation designation command. Further, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit an effect control command (variation pattern command) corresponding to the determined variation pattern to the effect control microcomputer 100 (step S102).

  Next, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the variation time corresponding to the selected variation pattern in the variation time timer formed in the RAM 55 (step S103). Then, the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the display result designation command transmission process (step S302) (step S104).

  In the case where it is determined to be out of place, instead of suddenly determining the variation pattern type, first, it may be determined whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a random number for reach determination. Then, based on the determination result as to whether or not to reach, the processing of steps S93 to S96 and S98 may be executed to determine the variation pattern type. In this case, a variation pattern type determination table for non-reach and a variation pattern type determination table for reach are prepared in advance, and one of the variation pattern type determination tables is selected based on the reach determination result. The variation pattern type may be determined.

  In addition, when determining whether or not to reach by a lottery process using a reach determination random number, depending on the total reserved memory number (which may be the first reserved memory number or the second reserved memory number), Reach determination tables having different selection ratios may be selected, and it may be determined whether or not to reach so that the reach probability decreases as the number of reserved memories increases.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the display result designation command transmission process (step S302). In the display result designation command transmission process, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit any effect control command (see FIG. 13) of display result 1 designation to display result 3 designation in accordance with the determined jackpot type and deviation. Do. Specifically, the CPU 56 first checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S105). If not set, the process proceeds to step S109. When the big hit flag is set, if the big hit type is “15R probability variation big hit”, control for transmitting a display result 2 designation command is performed (steps S106 and S107). Whether or not it is “15R probability variation big hit” is specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S65 of the special symbol normal processing is “01”. it can. Further, when the big hit type is “4R probability variation big hit”, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 3 designation command (steps S106 and S108). Whether or not it is “4R probability variation big hit” is specifically determined by checking whether or not the data set in the big hit type buffer in step S65 of the special symbol normal processing is “02”. it can.

  On the other hand, when the big hit flag is not set (N of step S105), that is, when it is out of place, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a display result 1 designation command (step S109).

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol changing process (step S303) (step S110).

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the special symbol stop process (step S304) in the special symbol process. In the special symbol stop process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the big hit flag is set (step S131). If the big hit flag is set, the CPU 56 resets the probability variation flag indicating the probability variation state if it is set (step S132).

  Next, the CPU 56 performs control to transmit a big hit start designation command to the production control microcomputer 100 (step S133). Specifically, when the type of jackpot is a 15R probability variable jackpot, a jackpot start 1 designation command is transmitted. When the jackpot type is 4R probability variation jackpot, a jackpot start 2 designation command is transmitted. Whether the jackpot type is a 15R probability variation jackpot or a 4R probability variation jackpot is determined based on data indicating the jackpot type stored in the RAM 55 (data stored in the jackpot type buffer).

  In addition, the CPU 56 sets a value corresponding to the jackpot display time (time for notifying that the jackpot has occurred, for example, in the effect display device 9) in the timer before opening the big prize opening (step S134). Note that the pre-winner pre-opening timer is a timer for measuring the time until the big winning opening is opened during the big hit game. Specifically, at the start of the big hit game, in step S134, the time required from the start of the variable display to the start of the first round (the variable display is stopped on the effect control microcomputer 100 side and the jackpot symbol is displayed). The time before the first round is started until the start of the first round is set as the pre-opening timer. For the first and subsequent rounds, the interval time between the rounds (apparatus at the time of performing the interval effect between the rounds on the effect control microcomputer 100 side) is set as the timer before opening the big prize opening.

  Further, the CPU 56 sets the number of releases corresponding to the jackpot type in the number-of-release counter (step S135). For example, 15 times is set in the open count counter for 15R probability variation big hit, and 4 times is set for 4R probability variation big hit.

  Then, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special winning opening opening pre-processing (step S305) (step S137).

  If the big hit flag is not set in step S131, the CPU 56 determines whether or not the probability variation flag is set (step S141). If it is not set, that is, if it is in the normal state, step 56 is performed. The process proceeds to S150. When the probability variation flag is set, that is, when the probability variation state is set, the value of the probability variation counter is decremented by 1 (step S142), and it is determined whether or not the value of the probability variation counter is 0 (step S143). . If not 0, the process proceeds to step S150. If it becomes 0, the probability variation flag is reset (step S144), and the process proceeds to step S150. As a result, the state is changed from the certain change state to the normal state when triggered by a predetermined number of times (50 times). In step S150, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S150).

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end process (step S307) in the special symbol process. In the jackpot end process, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the jackpot end display timer is set (step S160). If the jackpot end display timer is set, the process proceeds to step S164. If the jackpot end display timer is not set, the jackpot flag is reset (step S161), and control for transmitting a jackpot end designation command is performed (step S162). Here, in the case of 15R probability variation big hit, a big hit end 1 designation command is transmitted, and in the case of 4R probability variation big hit, a big hit end 2 designation command is transmitted. Then, a value corresponding to the display time corresponding to the time during which the big hit end display is performed in the effect display device 9 (big hit end display time) is set in the big hit end display timer (step S163), and the processing is ended. Note that the timing for resetting the jackpot flag is not limited to step S161. For example, after determining whether the jackpot flag is set in the special symbol stop process (for example, the timing of step S132), The jackpot flag may be reset after the jackpot end display time has elapsed (for example, the timing immediately before step S171).

  In step S164, 1 is subtracted from the value of the jackpot end display timer. Then, the CPU 56 checks whether or not the value of the jackpot end display timer is 0, that is, whether or not the jackpot end display time has elapsed (step S165). If not, the process ends.

  If the big hit end display time has elapsed (Y in step S165), the CPU 56 sets the probability change flag and shifts the gaming state to the probability change state (step S167). Then, “50” is set in the probability variation counter (step S168), and the process proceeds to step S171.

  In step S171, the CPU 56 updates the value of the special symbol process flag to a value corresponding to the special symbol normal process (step S300) (step S171). In this embodiment, when controlling to the probability variation state (high probability high base state), only the probability variation flag is set. However, the high probability flag indicating the high probability state and the high base state are set. It is also possible to set a high base flag indicating that Further, in a type of gaming machine provided with a high probability low base state or a low probability high base state, a high probability flag or a high base flag may be set according to the gaming state to be controlled. In this embodiment, in the probability variation state, the period in which the high base state is set and the period in which the high probability state is set are the same period (a period in which 50 variable displays are executed), but is in the high base state. The period may be different from the period in the high probability state. For example, if the period in the high base state is a period in which 50 variable displays are executed, and the period in the high probability state is a period in which the variable display is executed 53 times, the variable display is executed 50 times. Since it is controlled to shift from the high probability high base state to the three high probability low base states and further to the low probability low base state, it is possible to improve interest.

  Next, the operation of the effect control means will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing main processing executed by the effect control microcomputer 100 (specifically, the effect control CPU 101) as effect control means mounted on the effect control board 80. The effect control CPU 101 starts executing the main process when the power is turned on. In the main processing, first, initialization processing for clearing the RAM area, setting various initial values, and initializing a timer for determining the activation control activation interval (for example, 4 ms) is performed (step S701). . Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to a loop process for monitoring a timer interrupt flag (step S702). When a timer interrupt occurs, the effect control CPU 101 sets a timer interrupt flag in the timer interrupt process. If the timer interrupt flag is set in the main process, the effect control CPU 101 clears the flag (step S703) and executes the following effect control process.

  In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first analyzes the received effect control command and performs a process of setting a flag according to the received effect control command (command analysis process: step S704).

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 performs effect control process processing (step S705). In the effect control process, the process corresponding to the current control state (effect control process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and display control of the effect display device 9 is executed.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 performs the fourth symbol process (step S706). In the 4th symbol process, the process corresponding to the current control state (4th symbol process flag) is selected from the processes corresponding to the control state, and the 4th symbol display areas 9c and 9d of the effect display device 9 are selected. The display control of the 4th symbol is executed.

  Next, a random number update process for updating a count value of a counter for generating a random number such as a jackpot symbol determining random number is executed (step S707). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S702.

  25 and 26 are flowcharts showing a specific example of the command analysis process (step S704). The effect control command received from the main board 31 is stored in the reception command buffer, but in the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms the content of the command stored in the command reception buffer.

  In the command analysis process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not a reception command is stored in the command reception buffer (step S611). Whether it is stored or not is determined by comparing the value of the command reception number counter with the read pointer. The case where both match is the case where the received command is not stored. When the reception command is stored in the command reception buffer, the effect control CPU 101 reads the reception command from the command reception buffer (step S612). When read, the value of the read pointer is incremented by +2 (step S613). The reason for +2 is that 2 bytes (1 command) are read at a time.

  If the received effect control command is a variation pattern command (step S614), the effect control CPU 101 stores the received variation pattern command in a variation pattern command storage area formed in the RAM (step S615). Then, a variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S616).

  If the received effect control command is a display result specifying command (step S617), the effect control CPU 101 forms the received display result specifying command (display result 1 specifying command to display result 3 specifying command) in the RAM. Is stored in the display result designation command storage area (step S618A). Then, a display result designation command reception flag is set (step S618B). The display result designation command reception flag is a flag indicating that the display result designation command has been normally received.

  If the received effect control command is a symbol confirmation designation command (step S619), the effect control CPU 101 sets a confirmed command reception flag (step S620). The confirmation command reception flag is a flag indicating that the symbol confirmation designation command has been normally received.

  If the received effect control command is a jackpot start 1 designation command or a jackpot start 2 designation command (step S621), the effect control CPU 101 sets a jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag or a jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag ( Step S622). In this embodiment, the jackpot start 1 designation command reception flag and the jackpot start 2 designation command reception flag set in step S622 are also referred to as fanfare flags.

  If the received effect control command is a normal state background designation command (step S679), the effect control CPU 101 changes the background screen displayed on the effect display device 9 to a background screen corresponding to the normal state (for example, a blue display color). Background screen) (step S680). Further, if set, the effect control CPU 101 resets the probability variation state flag indicating that the gaming state is the probability variation state (step S681A), and normally receives the normal state background designation command or the probability variation state background designation command. A background designation command reception flag indicating that this has been done is set (step S681B). Then, the display effect of the remaining variable display count in the probability variation state (hereinafter referred to as “residual count display”) is terminated (step S681C).

  If the received effect control command is a probability change state background designation command (step S682), the effect control CPU 101 uses the background screen displayed on the effect display device 9 as a background screen (for example, a red display). Color background screen) (step S683). Further, the production control CPU 101 sets a probability variation state flag (step S684A). Then, a background designation command reception flag is set (step S684B). In the present embodiment, the production of the probability variation state is started by performing steps S683 and S684A based on the reception of the probability variation state background designation command (that is, at the start of variation). For example, it is possible to start the production of the probable change state based on the reception of the ending designation command. Although details will be described later, in this embodiment, the remaining probability variation number K is set based on the reception of the ending designation command (that is, at the end of the big hit game), but the first variation in the probability variation state The remaining probability variation number K may be set at the start. In this embodiment, since the period to be controlled to the probability variation state is one type of period (between 50 variable displays), “50” is set to the remaining probability variation number K. When a period is provided, a value corresponding to the type of jackpot that has occurred is set as the remaining probability variation number K.

  If the received production control command is a customer waiting demonstration designation command (step S685), the production control CPU 101 sets a customer waiting demonstration designation command reception flag indicating that the customer waiting demonstration designation command has been normally received. Then (step S686), control is performed to display the customer waiting demonstration screen on the effect display device 9 after 30 seconds (step S687). Specifically, a timer for measuring 30 seconds is set, and when the timer times out, a customer waiting demonstration screen is displayed on the effect display device 9. If a variation pattern command or the like is received during measurement, the timer is reset and the measurement ends. After step S687, the number of reserved memories stored in each reserved memory number storage area is cleared (step S688).

  If the received effect control command is a remaining number of times designation command (step S690A), the effect control CPU 101 sets the remaining number of times of the probability variation state that can be specified from the remaining number of times designation command as the remaining probability variation number K (step S690B). ). The remaining probability variation number K is a value that the production control microcomputer 100 recognizes as the remaining number of times of variable display of the identification information until the probability variation state ends. Then, the effect control CPU 101 performs control to display on the effect display device 9 an image indicating that the remaining number of times in the probability variation state is 0 (for example, an image including character information such as “0 times remaining”) (step). S690C). Since the remaining number designation command is a command transmitted immediately after the power is turned on, the presentation control CPU 101 performs steps S690A to S690C to perform image display control indicating that the remaining number is zero immediately after the power is turned on. Will start. In the present embodiment, an image indicating that the remaining number of times in the probability variation state is 0 immediately after the power is turned on is displayed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, “remaining times” It is also possible to display an image whose remaining number is not clarified, or not to display the remaining number itself. In addition, an image that clearly displays the remaining number of times (an image including character information such as “40 more times” if the remaining variation number K is 40) may be displayed. Further, immediately after the power is turned on, the remaining number of times may be displayed in a mode different from normal. For example, an image clearly displaying the remaining number of times may be displayed smaller than the normal time, or “40 more times?” It is good also as displaying the image containing the information which makes the remaining frequency unclear like this. When the remaining number of times is displayed in a mode different from normal immediately after the power is turned on, the remaining number of times is displayed in the normal mode based on receiving a command related to variable display (for example, a variation pattern command). It may be restored.

  If the received effect control command is another command, the effect control CPU 101 sets a flag according to the received effect control command or executes a process (step S691). Then, control goes to a step S611.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the effect control process (step S705) in the main process shown in FIG. In the effect control process, the effect control CPU 101 first determines whether or not a non-execution flag is set (step S2301). The non-execution flag is a flag that indicates that the variable display of the effect symbol was not started at the start of the variable symbol variable display. When the non-execution flag is set, the process during variation non-execution is executed (step S2302), and the effect control process process is terminated as it is. Thereby, when the non-execution flag is set, the configuration is such that steps S800 to S807 are not performed. The processing of steps S800 to S803 is processing for variable display of the effect symbol in the effect display device 9, and processing for variable display of the effect symbol is not performed while the non-execution flag is set. . The non-execution flag is a flag that is set when the variation pattern command and the predetermined command are not normally received at the start of variable display of the special symbol in the probability variation state (see FIG. 30). Therefore, when the variable pattern command and the predetermined command are not normally received at the start of variable display of the special symbol in the probability variation state, the processing for variable display of the effect symbol is not performed. Although details will be described later, when the variable display of the effect symbol is not executed, the effect symbol is oscillated.

  If the non-execution flag is not set in step S2301, the effect control CPU 101 performs one of steps S800 to S807 in accordance with the value of the effect control process flag. In each process, the following process is executed. In the effect control process, the display state of the effect display device 9 is controlled and variable display of the effect symbol is realized. However, control related to variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the first special symbol is also the second. Control related to the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the change of the special symbol is also executed in one effect control process. It should be noted that the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the first special symbol and the variable display of the effect symbol synchronized with the variation of the second special symbol may be executed by separate effect control process processing. Good. Further, in this case, it may be determined which special symbol variation display is being executed depending on which representation control process processing is performing the variation display of the representation symbol.

  Fluctuation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800): It is confirmed whether or not a variation pattern command has been received from the game control microcomputer 560. Specifically, it is confirmed whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag set in the command analysis process is set. If the change pattern command has been received, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol change start process (step S801).

  Production symbol variation start processing (step S801): Control is performed so that the variation of the production symbol is started. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802).

  Production symbol variation processing (step S802): Controls the switching timing of each variation state (variation speed) constituting the variation pattern and monitors the end of the variation time. When the variation time ends, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803).

  Effect symbol variation stop processing (step S803): Control is performed to stop the variation of the effect symbol and derive and display the display result (stop symbol). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to either the jackpot display process (step S804) or the variation pattern command reception wait process (step S800).

  Big hit display process (step S804): When the big hit is made, after the end of the variation time, the effect display device 9 is controlled to display a screen for notifying the occurrence of the big hit. For example, when a fanfare designation command designating the start of a big hit is received, a fanfare effect is executed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S805).

  In-round processing (step S805): Display control during round is performed. For example, if a display command indicating that the special winning opening is open is received, the display control of the number of rounds is performed.

  Post-round processing (step S806): Display control between rounds is performed. For example, when a display command after opening the big prize opening indicating that the big prize opening is after being opened (closed), an interval display is performed.

  Big hit end effect processing (step S807): In the effect display device 9, display control is performed to notify the player that the big hit game state has ended. For example, when an ending designation command for designating the end of the big hit is received, an ending effect is executed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800).

  In the present embodiment, when the non-execution flag is set, step S2302 is performed and the effect control process is terminated (that is, steps S801 to S803 are not executed). Although the configuration for executing the variable display of the effect symbol on condition that the variation pattern command and the predetermined command are normally received is realized, the specific control is not limited to this. For example, it may be realized without providing step S2302, and when the variation pattern command is received in the probability variation state but the predetermined command is not normally received, the variation time timer is set / reset in steps S801 to S803. Although the process of subtracting the variable time timer is executed, it may be realized by not executing the process related to the display of the effect symbol. Further, when the variation pattern command is received in the probability variation state but the predetermined command is not normally received without providing step S2302, the variable symbol display time (recognizable by the received variation pattern command) is measured. However, during the measurement, it may be such that the variable display of the effect symbols in steps S801 to S803 is not executed.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the non-execution process. The variation non-execution process is the process shown in step S2302 of FIG. 27, and is a process that is performed when the variable symbol display is not started when the special symbol variable display is started. In the variation non-execution process, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not a confirmed command reception flag is set (step S2401), and if it is set, resets the confirmed command reception flag (step S2402), A stop symbol of the effect symbol is determined according to the variation pattern command (step S2403). Specifically, the variable pattern command stored in the variable pattern command storage area is detected as to which variable display result (displacement, big hit) corresponds to the variation pattern command, and the variable display result is not suitable. If the variable display result is a big hit, the big hit symbol is determined as the stop symbol of the production symbol. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) (step S2404). Thereby, when the symbol confirmation designation command is normally received at the end of the variable display of the special symbol, the image (for example, the previous variation) that has been continuously displayed on the effect display device 9 from the start of the variable symbol variable display start. The stop symbol image) can be switched to the stop symbol of the effect symbol corresponding to the variation pattern command.

  In step S2403, when the off symbol is determined as the stop symbol of the effect symbol, a pre-set combination of off symbols may be determined, or a randomly determined off symbol may be determined. In the present embodiment, it is possible to recognize whether or not the variable display result is a big hit by the variation pattern command. However, since the big hit type cannot be recognized, in step S2403, the big hit symbol is changed to the effect symbol. When determining as a stop symbol, it is desirable to determine a jackpot symbol that suggests a jackpot that is less advantageous to the player as the stop symbol of the effect symbol. By doing so, a jackpot symbol that is advantageous to the player (for example, 15R probability variation jackpot) is displayed, while a jackpot symbol that is less advantageous to the player (for example, 4R) is displayed. It is possible to prevent the player from being discouraged by performing the probable big hit.

  In the present embodiment, when the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the stop symbol of the effect symbol is determined according to the variation pattern command. However, the display result designation command is normal when the special symbol variable display starts. When the display symbol is received (for example, when the display result designation command reception flag is set), the stop symbol of the effect symbol may be determined according to the display result designation command. In addition, only when the information included in the received variation pattern command and the display result designation command match (when the variable display results (big hit / loss) in both commands match) It is good also as determining a stop symbol. At this time, if the received variation pattern command and the display result designation command do not match, it is desirable to determine the off symbol as a stop symbol of the effect symbol. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the player from being discouraged by being out of play while the effect symbol of the big hit symbol is stopped and displayed.

  If the confirmation command reception flag is not set in step S2401, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the customer waiting demonstration designation command reception flag is set (step S2405). Then, the customer waiting demonstration designation command reception flag is reset (step S2406), a predetermined off symbol is determined as a stop symbol of the effect symbol (step S2407), and the process proceeds to step S2404. Thereby, when the customer waiting demonstration designation command is normally received, from the image (for example, the stopped symbol image in the previous variation) continuously displayed on the effect display device 9 from the start of the variable symbol special symbol display start. , It is configured to be able to switch to the display symbol and display. In step S2407, when a predetermined off symbol is determined as a stop symbol of the effect symbol, a predetermined combination off symbol may be determined, or a randomly determined off symbol may be determined. Good.

  Further, in the present embodiment, in step S2407, the predetermined off-set symbol is determined as the stop symbol of the effect symbol, but the stop symbol of the effect symbol may be determined according to the variation pattern command. If received, the stop symbol of the effect symbol may be determined according to the display result designation command.

  Two patterns are assumed as patterns for receiving the customer waiting demonstration designation command. First, as the first pattern, the variable display result of the special symbol that did not start the variable display of the effect symbol is out of order, the symbol confirmation designation command is not received normally, and the variable display ends and the summation is suspended There is a pattern in which a customer-waiting demo designation command is received when the stored number becomes 0 (changes are interrupted). Also, as the second pattern, the variable display result of the special symbol that did not start the variable display of the effect symbol is a big hit, the symbol confirmation designation command is not normally received, and the command related to the big hit (the big hit start designation command , The winning prize opening opening designation command, the winning prize opening opening designation command, and the big hit end designation command) are not received normally, and after the big hit game is finished, the total pending storage number becomes zero (the fluctuation is changed). This is a pattern in which a customer-waiting demo designation command is received when it is interrupted. If it is the first pattern, the variable symbol display result of the special symbol and the variable symbol display result of the effect symbol are determined by determining the off symbol as the stop symbol of the effect symbol in step S2407 as in the present embodiment. As a result, the game progress can be matched with the progress of the game. Also, if it is the second pattern, the jackpot symbol is determined as a stop symbol in accordance with the variable symbol display result of the special symbol, and the jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed as a stop symbol of the effect symbol after the jackpot game ends. As a result, there is a risk of giving the player a sense of expectation. Therefore, as in the present embodiment, even if the pattern is the second pattern, it is possible to stop and display the big hit symbol after the big hit game is ended by determining the off symbol as a stop symbol in step S2407. It is possible to prevent the player from having a sense of expectation.

  In the present embodiment, when the symbol confirmation designation command or the customer waiting demonstration designation command is received in the variation non-execution process, the effect symbol variation stop process is performed after the stop symbol of the effect symbol is determined (steps S2403 and S2407). In step S2404, the stop symbol of the effect symbol corresponding to the variable symbol special display is stopped. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in steps S2403 and S2407, the stop symbol of the effect symbol is displayed. May be determined and displayed on the image display device 9, and the process may move to step S2414 instead of step S2404. If the process proceeds to step S2404 after step S2407 as in the present embodiment, S2404 is performed at the next timer interrupt that has received the customer waiting demonstration designation command from the game control microcomputer 560, and the next timer In effect, the effect symbol variation stop process (FIG. 33) is performed. However, if the variation pattern command and the predetermined command are normally received at the start of the variation of the special symbol (that is, if there is no problem in the transmission / reception of each command), the customer waiting demonstration designation command is received from the gaming control microcomputer 100. The variation pattern command reception waiting process (FIG. 29) is performed at the next timer interrupt. Therefore, the timer interrupt 1 is more effective when the customer waiting demo designation command is received when the change of the production symbol is not started (Y in step S2405) than when no trouble occurs in the transmission / reception of each command. Misalignment of the batch occurs. Therefore, when the customer waiting demonstration designation command reception flag is set in step S2405, the stop symbol of the effect symbol is determined and displayed on the image display device 9 in S2407, and the process proceeds to step S2414 instead of step S2404. It is also possible to prevent the deviation from occurring.

  If the customer waiting demonstration designation command reception flag is not set in step S2405, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether the fanfare flag is set (step S2408). If it is set, the fanfare flag is reset (step S2409), and process data corresponding to the fanfare effect is selected (step S2410). Then, the process timer is started (step S2411). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S2412). Here, when the fanfare flag is set, the variable display result of the special symbol that did not start the variable display of the production symbol is a big hit, the symbol confirmation designation command is not received normally, and the big hit starts This is when a specified command is received. Thereby, when the jackpot start designation command is normally received, from the image (for example, the stop symbol image in the previous variation) that has been continuously displayed on the effect display device 9 from the start of variable display of the special symbol, The fanfare effect image can be switched and displayed.

  In the present embodiment, the variable display of the special symbol is not started at the start of variable display of the special symbol, and the image displayed at the start of variable display of the special symbol is continuously displayed on the effect display device 9. When a jackpot start designation command is received in the state (hereinafter referred to as “variation not being executed”), the image displayed during the change non-execution is switched to the fanfare effect image and displayed. It is good also as switching and displaying to the stop symbol of an effect design from the image displayed during non-execution, and switching to a fanfare effect image after that. In that case, it is sufficient if the jackpot symbol is determined as the stop symbol of the effect symbol. For example, the stop symbol of the effect symbol may be determined according to the variation pattern command or the display result designation command, or a predetermined jackpot symbol may be determined. The symbol may be determined as the stop symbol of the effect symbol. In addition, when determining the stop symbol of the effect symbol as the predetermined jackpot symbol, despite the fact that the jackpot symbol which suggests the big jackpot (for example, 15R probability variation big hit) which is highly advantageous to the player is stopped and displayed, In order to prevent the player from being discouraged by the occurrence of a big hit with a low advantage (for example, 4R probability variation big hit), the big hit image indicating the occurrence of a big hit with a low advantage to the player is stopped. It is desirable to determine the symbol.

  If the fanfare flag is not set in step S2408, the effect control CPU 101 determines whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S2413). If it is not set, the process during non-execution of fluctuation is terminated as it is. If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the value of the effect control process flag is changed to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S2414). Here, when the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variable symbol of the special symbol that has not started variable display of the effect symbol is terminated and the variable symbol of the next special symbol is started. This is a case where a variation pattern command is received. Thereby, when a new variation pattern command is normally received, from an image (for example, a stop symbol image in the previous variation) that has been continuously displayed on the effect display device 9 from the start of variable display of the special symbol. In this configuration, it is possible to switch to a variable display image with a new effect design.

  Note that if the variation pattern command reception flag is set in step S2413, the process proceeds to step S2414. In this case, the next timer interrupt that has received the variation pattern command from the gaming control microcomputer 100 causes S2414 to occur. Then, a variation pattern command reception waiting process (FIG. 29) is performed at the next timer interrupt, and an effect symbol variation start process (FIG. 30) is performed at the next timer interrupt. However, when the variation pattern command and the predetermined command are normally received at the start of variation of the special symbol (that is, when there is no problem in transmission / reception of each command), the variation pattern command is received from the game control microcomputer 100. The variation pattern command reception waiting process (FIG. 29) is performed at the timer interruption of No. 1, and the effect symbol variation start process (FIG. 30) is performed at the next timer interruption. Therefore, when the variation of the production symbol is not started and the variation pattern command corresponding to the next variable display is received (Y in step S2413), compared to the case where there is no problem in transmission / reception of each command. A deviation of one timer interrupt will occur. Therefore, when the variation pattern command reception flag is set in step S2413, it is possible to prevent the deviation from occurring by performing steps S812 and S813 described later. When the variation pattern command reception flag is set in step S2413, the process may be shifted to the effect symbol variation start process instead of the variation pattern command reception waiting process in step S2414.

  In the present embodiment, when a variation pattern command is received during non-execution of change, the image displayed during non-execution of change is switched to a variable display image of a new effect image. However, it is also possible to switch from the image displayed during non-execution of the change to the stop symbol of the effect symbol, and then switch to the variable display image of the new effect image and display it. In that case, the stop symbol of the effect symbol may be determined according to the variation pattern command or the display result designation command, or the stop symbol of the effect symbol may be determined as the predetermined symbol.

  After steps S2404, S2412, and S2414, the effect control CPU 101 resets the non-execution flag (step S2415), and ends the non-execution process.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the variation pattern command reception waiting process, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not the variation pattern command reception flag is set (step S811). If the variation pattern command reception flag is set, the variation pattern command reception flag is reset (step S812). Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) (step S813). In step S811, when the variation pattern command reception flag is not set, the variation pattern command reception waiting process is terminated as it is. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when a display result designation command is received while it is determined in step S811 that a variation pattern command has not been received (for example, when a display result designation command reception flag is set), a probability variation state flag is set. If so, it is possible to update the remaining probability variation number K and notify the update result as if the variation pattern command was missed.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation start process (step S801) in the effect control process shown in FIG. In the effect symbol variation start process, the effect control CPU 101 first determines whether or not the probability change state flag is set (step S2601). If the probability variation state flag is set, that is, if the probability variation state is present, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the remaining probability variation number K (step S3001), and switches to the remaining number image corresponding to the subtraction result. Perform (step S3002). The remaining number of times image is an image for notifying the number of times of remaining variation in the probability variation state, and is an image displayed on the effect display device 9. In step S3002, specifically, if the remaining fluctuation count K after subtraction is 40, the image is switched to an image including character information such as “40 more times”. In the present embodiment, the process of subtracting the residual probability variation number K (step S3001) and the process of switching and displaying the residual number image (step S3002) are performed at the same timing, but are performed at different timings. It is good as well. Even when the power is restored, the processing of steps S3001 and S3002 is performed, so that the update of the remaining probability variation number K and the notification of the remaining variation number are resumed. In other words, regardless of whether or not the power is restored, the process of updating the residual probability variation number K and the notification of the residual variation number is made common.

  Then, it is determined whether or not the display result designation command reception flag is set (step S2602). If it is not set, the process proceeds to step S2607. If the display result designation command reception flag is set in step S2602, the display result designation command reception flag is reset (step S2603), and it is determined whether the background designation command reception flag is set (step S2604). . If not set, the process proceeds to step S2607. When the background designation command reception flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 resets the background designation command reception flag (step S2605), and includes information included in the received variation pattern command and information included in the display result designation command. Are determined to be consistent (step S2606). For example, it is determined whether or not the variable display result included in the variation pattern command matches the variable display result included in the display result designation command. Specifically, if the variable display results included in both commands match, they are matched, and if they do not match, they are not matched. If they match, the process proceeds to step S8001. If they do not match, the non-execution flag is set (step S2607). The case where the information included in the variation pattern command and the information included in the display result designation command are not consistent is a case where at least one of the commands is not normally transmitted / received. Thereafter, the effect symbol is displayed in a swinging manner (step S2608), and the effect symbol start process is ended as it is. In step S2608, specifically, the effect symbol is displayed in a rocking manner with the stop symbol combination in the previous variation. In this way, when the variable display of the special symbol is not performed when the special symbol is variable, the effect symbol is displayed in a swinging manner to prevent the player from misunderstanding that the game is not progressing. can do.

  In step S8001, the effect control CPU 101 reads the variation pattern command from the variation pattern command storage area (step S8001). Next, the CPU 101 for effect control displays the display result (stop) of the effect symbol according to the variation pattern command read in step S8001 and the data stored in the display result specifying command storage area (that is, the received display result specifying command). (Design) is determined (step S8002). That is, when the CPU 101 for effect control executes the process of step S8002, the display result of the variable display of the identification information (stop of the effect symbol) according to the variable display pattern (variation pattern) determined by the variable display pattern determination means. A display result determining means for determining (design) is realized. If a variation pattern that designates a pseudo-ream is also used and the pseudo-ream is designated by the variation pattern command, the effect control CPU 101, in step S8002, obtains a chance eye symbol (as a temporary stop symbol in the pseudo-ream) ( For example, a combination of symbols that are not reachable, such as “223” and “445”, but that is not one reach and one symbol is shifted) is also determined. The effect control CPU 101 stores data indicating the determined effect stop symbols in the effect symbol display result storage area. In step S8002, the effect control CPU 101 may determine whether or not it is a big hit based on the received variation pattern command, and may determine the stop symbol of the effect symbol based only on the variation pattern command. . When the variation display result designation command is not normally received in step S8002, the effect control CPU 101 may determine a stop symbol of the effect symbol based on the variation pattern command, or may display a predetermined off-set symbol. It is good also as determining as a stop symbol of an effect design. Here, the predetermined missing symbol is used in order to prevent the big hit symbol from being stopped in spite of the loss.

  FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the stop symbol of the effect symbol in the effect display device 9. In the example shown in FIG. 31, when the received display result designation command indicates “15R probability variation big hit” (when the received display result designation command is a display result 2 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 A combination of effect symbols in which the three symbols are arranged in the same odd number as the stop symbols is determined. When the received display result designation command indicates “4R probability variation big hit” (when the received display result designation command is a display result 3 designation command), the effect control CPU 101 uses 3 symbols as stop symbols. Determines the combination of performance symbols arranged with the same even number of symbols.

  In the case of “out of” (when the received display result designation command is a display result 1 designation command), a combination of effect symbols other than the above is determined. However, when a reach effect is involved, a combination of effect symbols in which two left and right symbols are aligned is determined. The combination of the three symbols derived and displayed on the effect display device 9 is the “stop symbol” of the effect symbol.

  The effect control CPU 101 extracts, for example, a random number for determining the stop symbol, and uses the stop symbol determination table in which the data indicating the combination of effect symbols and numerical values are associated with each other to generate the stop symbol of the effect symbol. decide. That is, the stop symbol is determined by selecting data indicating the combination of effect symbols corresponding to the numerical value matching the extracted random number.

  In addition, as for the effect symbols, a stop symbol reminiscent of a big hit (a combination of symbols in which the left, middle and right are all the same symbols) is called a big hit symbol. In addition, a stop symbol that recalls a loss is called a loss symbol.

  Next, the effect control CPU 101 executes a normal notice effect setting process for setting the notice effect (step S8003). Then, the effect control CPU 101 selects a process table corresponding to the notice effect when executing the variation pattern and the notice effect (step S8004). Then, the process timer in the process data 1 of the selected process table is started (step S8005).

  FIG. 32 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the process table. The process table is a table in which process data referred to when the effect control CPU 101 executes control of the effect device is set. That is, the effect control CPU 101 controls effect devices (effect components) such as the effect display device 9 according to the process data set in the process table. The process table includes data in which a plurality of combinations of process timer set values, display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data are collected. The display control execution data includes, for example, data indicating each variation mode constituting the variation mode during the variable display time (variation time) of the variable display of the effect symbol (display of the effect display device 9 in addition to the display mode of the effect symbol) (Including other aspects of the screen) Specifically, data relating to the change of the display screen of the effect display device 9 is described. Further, the production time in the production mode is set in the process timer set value. The effect control CPU 101 refers to the process table, displays the effect design in the form set in the display control execution data for the time set in the process timer set value, and displays the character image or background displayed on the display screen. Control to display. In addition, the flashing of the light emitter is controlled in a manner set in the lamp control execution data and the sound number data, and the sound output from the speaker 27 is controlled.

  The process table shown in FIG. 32 is stored in the ROM of the effect control board 80. The process table is prepared according to the contents of each variation pattern and notice effect. If it is decided to execute the notice effect in the process of step S8004 or the like, the data corresponding to the notice effect is set, the process table is selected, and it is not decided to execute the notice effect. The process table for which data corresponding to the notice effect is not set is selected.

  In addition, in the process table used when effect control is executed for a variation pattern with reach effect, the left symbol is stopped when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the variation, and the right symbol is stopped when a predetermined time further elapses. Process data indicating that it is to be displayed is set. In addition, instead of setting the symbols to be stopped and displayed in the process table, an image for displaying the symbols is synthesized and generated according to the determined stop symbol, the temporary stop symbol in the pseudo-ream and the sliding effect. May be.

  After step S8005, the effect control CPU 101 controls the effect device according to the contents of the process data 1 (step S8006). Thereafter, the effect control CPU 101 sets a value corresponding to the variation time specified by the variation pattern command in the variation time timer (step S8007). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the effect symbol changing process (step S802) (step S8008).

  As described above, in this embodiment, when a variation pattern command is received in a normal state, the variation display of the effect symbol is performed regardless of whether or not the predetermined command (display result designation command, background designation command) is normally received. (N in steps S2601, S8001 to S8008) On the other hand, if the predetermined command (display result designation command, background designation command) is not normally received even when the variation pattern command is received in the probability variation state, the effect is produced. The symbol variation display is not performed (Y in steps S2601, S2602 to S2607), and the reception flag is reset.

  In the present embodiment, the display result designation command is normally received as a condition for variably displaying the production symbol when the variation pattern command is received in the probability variation state (hereinafter referred to as “first condition”). )), The background designation command has been received normally (hereinafter referred to as “second condition”), and the contents of the received variation pattern command and display result designation command are consistent (hereinafter referred to as “third”). Condition ”) (see steps S2602, S2603, and S2606). However, it is not always necessary to satisfy all of the first condition to the third condition. For example, only one of the conditions may be provided, or a plurality of conditions may be provided. It may be a thing.

  For example, if the variable pattern command includes information indicating the variable symbol display result of the special symbol (whether it is a big hit or a big hit type), the variable indication of the effect symbol is displayed even if the first condition is not satisfied. It is good to do. Specifically, when it is recognizable from the variation pattern command as to whether or not it is a big hit as in the present embodiment, it is possible to start the variable display of the production symbol even if the first condition is not satisfied. . At that time, if it is possible to recognize that the variable display result is a big hit, but it is impossible to recognize the big hit type, the big hit type of the big hit type (for example, 4R probability variable big hit) having a low advantage to the player is displayed. It is desirable to stop display. This is a big hit type (for example, 4R probability variable big hit) with low advantage for the player even though the big hit symbol of the big hit type (for example, 15R probability variable big hit) having high advantage for the player is stopped and displayed. This is to prevent the player from being discouraged.

  Also, for example, if the variation pattern command includes information indicating the gaming state (whether it is a normal state or a certain variation state), the effect symbol is variably displayed even if the second condition is not satisfied. It is good as well. Specifically, if the variation pattern selected by the game control microcomputer 560 is different for each gaming state and a variation pattern command corresponding to the selected variation pattern is transmitted, the effect control micro computer Since the computer 100 can recognize the information indicating the gaming state even if the second condition is not satisfied, it may be possible to perform variable display of the effect symbols.

  Further, for example, when the variable pattern command does not include information indicating the variable symbol display result of the special symbol, the variable symbol command may be started even if the third condition is not satisfied. In addition, when it is not a condition that the display result designation command is normally received, the variable display of the effect symbols may be started even if the third condition is not satisfied. Further, the order of determining whether or not a plurality of conditions are satisfied is not limited to that shown in this embodiment.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the effect symbol variation stop process (step S803) in the effect control process. In the effect symbol variation stop process, first, the effect control CPU 101 confirms whether or not a stop symbol display flag indicating that the stop symbol of the effect symbol is being displayed is set (step S861). If the stop symbol display flag is set, the effect control CPU 101 proceeds to step S867. In this embodiment, as will be described later, when a jackpot symbol is displayed as a stop symbol of the effect symbol, a stop symbol display flag is set in step S866. When the fanfare effect is executed, the stop symbol display flag is reset in step S868. Accordingly, the fact that the stop symbol display flag is set in step S861 is a stage in which the fanfare effect has not yet been executed although the jackpot symbol has been stopped and displayed, so the process of displaying the stop symbol of the effect symbol in step S862 Without moving to step S867.

  If the stop symbol display flag is not set, the production control CPU 101 performs control to stop and display the stored stop symbol (disconnected symbol or jackpot symbol) (step S862). The production control CPU 101 may perform control to stop and display the production symbol in response to the reception of the symbol confirmation designation command from the game control microcomputer 560.

  When the big hit symbol is displayed in step S862 (Y in step S863), the effect control CPU 101 sets the stop symbol display flag (step S866) and the fanfare flag (big hit start 1 designation command reception flag or big hit start 2). It is confirmed whether or not the (specified command reception flag) has been set (step S867). When the fanfare flag is set (Y in step S867), the effect control CPU 101 resets the stop symbol display flag (step S868) and selects process data corresponding to the fanfare effect (step S869). Then, the process timer is started (step S870).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the jackpot display process (step S804) (step S871).

  When the big hit symbol is not displayed in step S863 (that is, when the off symbol is displayed: N in step S863), the presentation control CPU 101 resets a predetermined flag (step S864). For example, the effect control CPU 101 resets a command reception flag such as a display result designation command reception flag. The effect control CPU 101 may reset the command reception flag immediately after being referred to in the effect control process or the fourth symbol process (for example, immediately after confirming the variation pattern command reception flag, the variation pattern command The reception flag may be reset).

  Then, the effect control CPU 101 updates the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S865).

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the jackpot display process (step S804) in the effect control process. In the jackpot display process, the effect control CPU 101 first checks whether or not the big prize opening open flag indicating that the big prize opening open designation command has been received is set (step S1901). When the big prize opening open flag is not set (N in step S1901), the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S1902), and the effect device (effect display) Control of the device 9, the speaker 27, the LEDs 25, 28, etc.) is executed (step S1903). For example, an effect of displaying a character or character indicating that a big hit has occurred is executed.

  Next, the production control CPU 101 checks whether or not the process timer has timed out (step S1904), and if the process timer has timed out, switches the process data (step S1905). That is, the process data (display control execution data, lamp control execution data, and sound number data) set next in the process table is switched. Then, the process timer set value in the next process data is set in the process timer and the process timer is started (step S1906).

  When the big prize opening open flag is set (Y in step S1901), the effect control CPU 101 resets the big prize opening open flag (step S1907), and selects process data corresponding to the big hit presentation. (Step S1912). Then, the effect control CPU 101 starts a process timer (step S1913), and the effect device according to the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1, movable member control data 1). Control of the effect display device 9 as an effect part, various lamps as an effect part, and the speaker 27 as an effect part is executed (step S1914). Then, the effect control CPU 101 sets the value of the effect control process flag to a value corresponding to the in-round processing (step S805) (step S1915).

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the jackpot end effect process (step S807) in the effect control process. In the big hit end effect process, the effect control CPU 101 first subtracts one effect period measurement timer for measuring the effect period of the ending effect (step S3901). And it is confirmed whether the production period measurement timer after subtraction has timed out (step S3902).

  If the production period measurement timer has not timed out (N in step S3902), the production control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the value of the process timer (step S3904). In addition, the CPU 101 for effect control is based on the contents of the process data 1 (display control execution data 1, lamp control execution data 1, sound number data 1, movable member control data 1), and the effect device (the effect display device 9 as an effect part). Then, the control of various lamps as the production parts and the speaker 27 as the production parts is executed (step S3905). For example, an effect of displaying that the big hit ends or displaying a predetermined character or the like is executed.

  Next, if the process timer has not timed out (N in step S3906), the effect control CPU 101 ends the process. When the process timer times out (Y in step S3906), the process data is switched. That is, the process timer setting value set next in the process table is set in the process timer (step S3907). Further, the production control CPU 101 starts a process timer (step S3908).

  If the effect period measurement timer has timed out (Y in step S3902), the effect control CPU 101 sets “50” in the remaining probability variation count K (step S3911) and starts displaying the remaining count image (step S3912). ). Specifically, since the residual probability variation count K is “50”, an image including character information such as “50 more times” is displayed. Then, the value of the effect control process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the variation pattern command reception waiting process (step S800) (step S3913).

  FIG. 36 is a timing chart in a case where variable display of effect symbols is not performed. The timing chart shown in FIG. 36 shows the presence / absence of variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display, the presence / absence of control of the jackpot game, the presence / absence of variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9, and the table of the effect display device 9. An example, the value of the probability variation counter (that is, the remaining number of probability variation states recognized by the game control microcomputer 560), and the value of the remaining probability variation number K (that is, the remaining probability variation state recognized by the effect control microcomputer 100) Frequency) for each timing. The value of the probability variation counter is shown above the presence / absence of variable symbol display on the special symbol display, and the value of the remaining probability variation K is shown below the display example of the effect display device 9.

  In the timing chart of FIG. 36, first, at the timing a1 when the big hit game ends, “50” is set in the probability variation counter by the game control microcomputer 560, and the remaining probability variation number K by the effect control microcomputer 100. “50” is set in. Then, at the timing a2 when the first special symbol variable display in the probability variation state is started, the presentation control microcomputer 100 that has normally received the variation pattern command, the background designation command, and the display result designation command has received the remaining probability variation number K. Is updated from “50” to “49”, and character information such as “49 times remaining” is displayed on the effect display device 9 as the remaining number of times display. At this time, the variable display of effect symbols is started. At the timing a3 when the special symbol variable display ends, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the probability variation counter from “50” to “49”, and the effect control microcomputer 100 stops and displays the effect symbol ( (Fixed display).

  Then, at the timing a4 when the variable display of the next special symbol is started, the effect control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern command normally, and thereby changes the value of the remaining probability variation number K from “49” to “48”. And the display mode of the remaining number display is switched to character information such as “remaining 48 times”. At this time, the production control microcomputer 100 does not start the variable display of the production symbols because the fluctuation pattern command is normally received and the background designation command and the display result designation command cannot be normally received. Oscillate display on.

  At the timing a5 when the special symbol variable display ends, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the probability variation counter from “49” to “48”, and the effect control microcomputer 100 stops and displays the effect symbol ( (Fixed display). As described above, even when the variation pattern command is received but the predetermined command (background designation command and display result designation command) is not received, the residual probability variation count K is updated (see timing a4), whereby Even when the variable display is not started, the value of the probability variation counter (the remaining number recognized by the game control microcomputer 560) and the value of the remaining probability variation K (the remaining number recognized by the effect control microcomputer 100) Can be prevented from occurring.

  FIG. 37 is a timing chart when power is restored. The timing chart shown in FIG. 37 shows power on / off, presence / absence of special symbol variable display on the special symbol display, display example of the effect display device 9, and the value of the probability variation counter (that is, the game control micro The remaining number of probability variation states recognized by the computer 560 and the value of the remaining probability variation number K (that is, the remaining number of probability variation states recognized by the production control microcomputer 100) are shown for each timing. The value of the probability variation counter is shown above the presence / absence of variable symbol display on the special symbol display, and the value of the remaining probability variation K is shown below the display example of the effect display device 9.

  In the timing chart of FIG. 37, first, at the timing b0 when the power is restored, the value of the probability variation counter that was backed up by the game control microcomputer 560 is set in the area in the RAM 55. For example, “24” is set as the value of the probability variation counter. Then, a residual number designation command based on the value of the probability variation counter (residual number designation command indicating that the residual number of the probability variation state is 24) is transmitted, and the effect control microcomputer that has received the residual number designation command 100 sets “24” to the remaining probability variation number K, and displays character information such as “remaining 0 times” on the effect display device 9 as the remaining number display.

  Then, at the timing b1 at which the special symbol variable display is started, the production control microcomputer 100 that has normally received the variation pattern command updates the value of the remaining probability variation number K from “24” to “23”. Then, character information such as “remaining 23 times” is displayed on the effect display device 9 as the remaining number of times display. At this time, the production control microcomputer 100 starts variable display of the production symbol based on the normal reception of the background designation command and the display result designation command (not shown). At the timing b2 when the special symbol variable display ends, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the probability variation counter from “24” to “23”, and the effect control microcomputer 100 stops and displays the effect symbol. In this manner, the production control microcomputer 100 that has received the remaining number designation command indicating the remaining number of times of the probability variation state when the power is restored starts the notification of the remaining number (remaining number display) at the timing b1 when the variation pattern command is received. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress an increase in processing load on the production control microcomputer 100 when the power is restored.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the game control means (in this example, the game control microcomputer 560) has a predetermined number of times of variable display of the identification information (in this example, 50 times). Until it becomes, it controls to the advantageous game state (in this example, a probability change state) advantageous to a player. Further, when the effect control means (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100) is controlled in the normal gaming state, a variable display related command (in this example, a change pattern command) related to variable display of the identification information is displayed. If received normally, the predetermined information (in this example, the background designation command and the display result designation command) is controlled. Sometimes, when a variable display related command is normally received, variable display of identification information is executed on condition that the predetermined command is normally received. Further, when the variable display related command is normally received when the effect control means is controlled to the advantageous gaming state, the remaining number of times is updated even if the predetermined command is not normally received (in this example, The residual probability variation number K is subtracted by 1). As a result, even when the variable display of the effect symbol is not executed, the value of the probability variation counter (the remaining number recognized by the game control microcomputer 560) and the value of the remaining probability variation K (the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the effect control microcomputer 100). It is possible to suppress the occurrence of inconsistency with the remaining number of times to be recognized. Note that the “remaining number of times” means the remaining number of times until the number of variable display of the identification information in the advantageous gaming state reaches a predetermined number (that is, the number of fluctuations until the advantageous gaming state ends), and already in the advantageous gaming state. This is a concept including the number of executions of the variable display of the identification information that has been executed (that is, the number of times of change since controlling to the advantageous gaming state). Accordingly, the remaining number of times may be updated and notified as in the present embodiment, or the number of executions may be updated and notified. In this embodiment, since the notification target is the remaining number of times, the remaining number of times is updated by subtracting the remaining number of times. However, when the notification target is the number of executions, the number of executions is added. Thus, the remaining number of times may be updated.

  The “variable display related command related to variable display of identification information” is a concept including a command directly related to variable display of identification information and a command indirectly related to variable display of identification information. “Commands directly related to variable display of identification information” are commands including information related to variable display of identification information, such as a change pattern command and a display result designation command. “Commands indirectly related to variable display of identification information” means that variable display of identification information is executed even if it is not a command that directly includes information related to variable display of identification information, such as a background designation command. This command is sent based on the Moreover, although the background designation command and the display result designation command have been described as the predetermined commands, the present invention is not limited to these. For example, a command indicating which of the first special symbol and the second special symbol corresponds to a variation, a command indicating increase / decrease of the reserved memory or the number of reserved memories, and the number of remaining fluctuations in the probability variation state The command may be a predetermined command.

  In this embodiment, when the variable display related command (in this example, the variation pattern command) is normally received while being controlled in the advantageous gaming state, the predetermined command (in this example, the background designation command) And the display result designation command) are normally received and not received at the same timing (steps S3001 and S3002), the remaining number of times is updated and the update result is notified. The remaining number of times may be updated at different timings when the command is normally received and when the command is not received, and the update result may be notified. For example, the processing of steps S3001 and S3002 is configured not to be performed after Y of step S2601, but after Y of step S2606 and during the non-fluctuating process, and when a predetermined command is normally received, While updating the remaining number during the change start process and informing the update result, when the predetermined command is not normally received, the remaining number may be updated and the update result may be notified during the process during non-execution of change. .

  In this embodiment, the remaining number of times is updated on the condition that the variable display related command is normally received. However, other conditions may be used under the condition that the variable display related command is normally received. If the remaining number of times is updated when (the normal gaming state or the advantageous gaming state and the predetermined command is normally received) is established, the variable display related command is normally received. This may not be a condition. For example, the remaining number of times may be updated on the condition that an event that may occur when a variable display-related command is normally received, and the variable display of the production symbol is started (execution of step S801). The remaining number of times may be updated when other conditions are satisfied.

  In the present embodiment, when the effect control means (in this example, the microcomputer 100 for effect control) is controlled in the advantageous game state (in this example, the probability change state), the variable display related command (this In the example, when the variation pattern command) is normally received and the predetermined command (background designation command and display result designation command in this example) is not normally received, the identification information is displayed in a rocking manner. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from giving a misunderstanding that the game is not progressing (the identification information is not variably displayed even though the variable display start condition is satisfied). it can.

  In the present embodiment, the game control means (in this example, the game control microcomputer 560) transmits a number specifying command (in this example, the remaining number specifying command) that can specify the remaining number when the power is turned on. The effect control means (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100) notifies the remaining number of times based on the fact that the variable display related command (in this example, the variation pattern command) is received after the number specifying command. It was. As a result, the notification module can be shared between the notification of the remaining number at the time of power recovery and the notification of the remaining number at the normal time (at the time of non-power recovery). Therefore, since it is not necessary to execute a special process for notifying the remaining number of times when the power is restored, it is possible to suppress an increase in the processing load of the presentation control means when the power is restored. In the present embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 receives the remaining number designation command and resets the remaining probability variation number K. However, the timing for resetting the residual probability variation number K is set here. It is not limited. For example, the remaining probability variation number K may be reset at the timing when the variable display related command is received after the number specifying command, and the remaining number notification may be performed. In this embodiment, since the notification timing of the remaining number at the normal time (when power is restored) is set to the start of fluctuation, the notification of the remaining number at the time of power restoration is also set to the start of fluctuation. The present invention is not limited to this as long as the remaining number of times is notified based on the reception of the variable display related command (in this example, the variation pattern command). For example, if the notification timing of the remaining number at the normal time (at the time of non-power supply restoration) is at the time of fluctuation stop, if the notification of the remaining number at the time of power restoration is also at the time of fluctuation stop (for example, at the time of receiving a symbol confirmation designation command), The notification module can be shared between the notification of the remaining number at the time of power restoration and the notification of the remaining number at the normal time (at the time of non-power supply restoration).

  Further, in the present embodiment, the effect control means (the effect control microcomputer 100) specifies the remaining number of notifications by the number specifying command (residual number specifying command), but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, at the start of variable display of identification information (for example, when a variable display related command (fluctuation pattern command) is transmitted), a command capable of specifying the remaining number is transmitted, and the production control means specifies the remaining number based on the command. Then, the specified number of remaining times may be notified.

  In the present embodiment, the production control microcomputer 100 displays an image indicating that the remaining number is 0 as a remaining number display from the time when the remaining number specifying command is received until the variation pattern command is received. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be possible to display an image in which the remaining number of times is not clarified, such as “remaining? Times”, from the reception of the remaining number of times designation command to the reception of the variation pattern command. It is also possible not to do it.

  Further, according to this embodiment, when a variable display time command (for example, a variation pattern command) indicating a variable display time of identification information is received in the normal state, the effect design can be changed even if the predetermined command cannot be received. While the display is executed, a specific gaming state (for example, a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state, a gaming state in which variable display of identification information for a shorter time than the normal state is easy to execute, a first gaming state (for example, In the second gaming state (for example, the probability variation state))) different from the normal state), when the variable display time command is received, the variable display of the effect symbol is executed on condition that the predetermined command is normally received. It was. Thereby, the process according to a condition is realizable. If the configuration is such that the variable display of the effect symbol is executed even when the predetermined command is not normally received, there is a possibility that the contents of the effect may be inconsistent, but the variable symbol display is being executed. However, if the variable display of the effect symbols is not executed, the player feels uncomfortable or distrustful. Therefore, in the normal state where variable display for a longer time than the probability change state is likely to be executed, the variable display of the effect symbol is executed for a long time by executing the variable display of the effect symbol even when the predetermined command cannot be received normally. In the probabilistic state in which variable display for a shorter time than the normal state is easy to be executed while suppressing giving a player a sense of discomfort or distrust due to being not performed, if the predetermined command cannot be received normally, By configuring so that variable display is not executed, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of inconsistencies in the production contents. Also, in the probability variation state, variable display for a shorter time than in the normal state is easy to be executed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress discomfort and distrust due to the fact that the variable display of the effect symbols is not executed, at least compared to the normal state.

  Also, it is assumed that a gaming state with a high degree of attention by the player (for example, a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state, a gaming state in which variable display of identification information for a shorter time than the normal state is easy to be executed, and a normal state) If a variable display that is unstable in a different game state (for example, a variable display in which the variable display result of the special symbol and the variable display result of the production symbol are different) is executed, the variable display that is unstable in the normal state is displayed. There is a possibility that the distrust of the player is increased by the amount of attention that is higher than the execution. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an increase in distrust by preventing the variable information from being displayed when the predetermined command cannot be normally received in a gaming state with a high degree of attention by the player. A corresponding process can be realized.

  The case where the production control microcomputer 100 cannot normally receive the command from the game control microcomputer 560 is, for example, a case where the command is missed. “To miss a command” means that although the game control microcomputer 560 has transmitted a command, the effect control microcomputer 100 has not received the command. Further, for example, the command transmitted from the game control microcomputer 560 is received by the effect control microcomputer 100 as data that the effect control microcomputer 100 cannot recognize as a command. The data that cannot be recognized as a command by the production control microcomputer 100 is data that cannot be normally read due to noise or the like (so-called bit error). In addition, even if the received data can be recognized as a command, the command is a command that should not be transmitted in a controlled manner, or the order of received commands is different from the normal order. Is also included as a case where the command cannot be received normally.

  In the present embodiment, when a variable display time command (for example, a variation pattern command) indicating the variable display time of the identification information is received in the normal state, a state command (for example, background) indicating the gaming state being controlled. Even if the designated command is not received, the variable display of the effect symbol is executed. On the other hand, when the variable display time command is received in the gaming state (for example, the probability variation state) more advantageous to the player than the normal state, It was decided to perform variable display of the effect design on the condition that it was received normally. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the variable display from being executed in a situation where the state command cannot be normally received in a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than in the normal state.

  In this embodiment, when a variable display time command (for example, a variation pattern command) indicating a variable display time of identification information is received in a normal state, a result command (for example, a display result) indicating a display result of variable display Even if the designated command) cannot be received, the variable display of the effect symbol is executed. On the other hand, when the variable display time command is received in the gaming state (for example, the probability variation state) more advantageous to the player than the normal state, the result command is displayed. It was decided to perform variable display of the effect design on the condition that it was received normally. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the variable display from being executed in a situation where the result command cannot be normally received in a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than in the normal state.

  In the present embodiment, a variable display time command (for example, a variation pattern command) and a predetermined command (for example, a background designation command or a display result) in a gaming state (for example, a probability variation state) that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state. Even when the specified command is received, if the information indicated by the variable display time command and the predetermined command (for example, the display result specifying command) is not consistent, the variable display of the production symbol is not executed. . Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the variable display from being executed in a situation where the information indicated by the variable display time command and the predetermined command cannot be matched in a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a predetermined command (for example, a background designation command or a display result designation command) is normally performed when the gaming state (for example, the probability variation state) is more advantageous to the player than the normal state. If the variable display of the identification information (for example, production symbol) is not executed because it was not received, a specific command (for example, symbol confirmation designation command, customer waiting demo designation command, jackpot start designation) based on the end of variable display The identification information is switched based on the reception of the command and the variation pattern command. Thereby, even when the variable display is not executed, the identification information displayed based on the command received later can be replaced.

  In the present embodiment, the probability variation state (high probability high base state) is described as a gaming state that is more advantageous to the player than the normal state, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be a high probability low base state or a low probability high base state.

  In the present embodiment, the gaming machine in which the low probability low base state and the high probability high base state are provided as the gaming state has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the high probability low base state or A low probability high base state may be provided. Further, in the present embodiment, the transition from the high probability state to the low probability state is triggered by the execution of variable display a predetermined number of times (50 times). However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is good also as shifting from a high probability state to a low probability state triggered by the occurrence of a big hit. Similarly, the trigger for shifting from the high base state to the low base state may be that a predetermined type of jackpot occurs. Further, the trigger for shifting from the high probability state to the low probability state may be different from the trigger for shifting from the high base state to the low base state. For example, a transition from a high probability state to a low probability state triggered by occurrence of a jackpot of a predetermined type, while a transition from a high base state to a low base state triggered by executing a predetermined number of variable displays Also good.

  In this embodiment, a common variation pattern can be selected in a plurality of gaming states (normal state and probability variation state). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a special pattern that can be selected only in one gaming state. A variation pattern may be provided. Provided is an effect control microcomputer that executes variable display of effect symbols according to the received variation pattern regardless of whether or not a predetermined command (eg, background designation command, display result designation command) has been normally received. When a special variation pattern that should be selectable only in one game state is erroneously transmitted from the game control microcomputer to the effect control microcomputer in the other game state. Moreover, the variable display of the effect symbol corresponding to the special variation pattern is executed. In such a case, inconsistency may occur in the production contents. Therefore, even in a game machine of a model provided with a special variation pattern that can be selected only in one gaming state, whether or not a predetermined command is received when the variation pattern command is received in one gaming state. Regardless of whether or not the variable display of the effect symbol is executed, when the variation pattern command is received in another gaming state, the predetermined command is normally received and the received variation pattern command is matched with the predetermined command. If the variable display of the effect symbol is executed as a condition, these problems can be solved.

  Also, commands that can recognize that the variable display time has passed without starting the variable display of the production symbol at the start of the variable display of the special symbol (for example, the symbol confirmation designation command, the customer waiting demonstration designation command, the jackpot start designation command) If it is possible to recognize that it is a big hit, but if the big hit type cannot be recognized, the big hit corresponding to the big hit type that is less advantageous to the player If the symbol is stopped and displayed, but the jackpot symbol corresponding to the jackpot type with low advantage is stopped and displayed, it is recognized that the jackpot type is highly advantageous by the received command. It is good also as performing the effect (what is called a promotion effect) as if it was promoted from the big hit to the big hit with high advantage. For example, the promotion effect may be performed during a predetermined round game or at the end of the big hit game. It can be said that the jackpot that shifts to the high probability state is the jackpot with higher advantage than the jackpot that shifts to the low probability state. Further, it can be said that the big hit that shifts to the high base state is the big hit with higher advantage than the big hit that shifts to the low base state. Further, it can be said that a big hit with a long transition period to a high probability state or a high base state is a big hit with higher advantage than a big hit with a short period. In addition, it can be said that the jackpot that shifts to the jackpot game where more prize balls can be expected is a jackpot that is more advantageous than the jackpot that shifts to the jackpot game where less prize balls can be expected.

  In the present embodiment, regardless of the type of jackpot, the open mode of the big winning opening during the round game is the same mode (opened for 30 seconds per round). A jackpot type that is controlled to a jackpot gaming state in which the release modes are combined may be provided.

  In this embodiment, when a variation pattern command is received, whether or not to execute variable display of the effect symbol is determined based on whether or not a predetermined command (background designation command or display result designation command) has been normally received. However, if the effect control means determines whether or not the predetermined command has been normally received even though the predetermined command has not yet been transmitted from the game control means, it is mistakenly recognized that the predetermined command has been missed. Therefore, there is a risk that the production symbols will not be changed unintentionally. Therefore, it is desirable that a situation in which the effect control unit determines whether or not the predetermined command has been normally received does not occur even though the predetermined command has not yet been transmitted from the game control unit. Therefore, the game control means is predetermined between the time when the game control means decides to start the change and the time when the effect control means that receives the change pattern command determines whether or not the predetermined command is normally received. The interrupt processing may be executed a sufficient number of times to transmit the command. Specifically, the timer interrupt processing cycle (hereinafter referred to as “game control interrupt cycle”) by the game control means is referred to as the timer interrupt processing cycle (hereinafter referred to as “effect control interrupt cycle”) by the effect control means. The number of executions of interrupt processing by the game control means within a predetermined time is greater than the number of executions of interrupt processing by the effect control means within a predetermined time. A situation in which it is likely to determine whether or not the effect control means has normally received the predetermined command after the means has transmitted all the predetermined commands. Therefore, it is desirable that the game control interrupt cycle be shorter than the effect control interrupt cycle. It should be noted that although the game control microcomputer 560 has not yet transmitted the display result designation command, it is misidentified that the presentation control microcomputer 100 has missed the display result designation command (even though the display result designation command has not been missed). Regardless, if the display result designation command reception flag is not set in step S2602, it is not limited to this as long as it is configured not to execute variable display of the effect symbol. In the present embodiment, since the background designation command is transmitted before the variation pattern command, the background designation command is omitted from the case where the background designation command reception flag is not set in step S2604. Is the situation. However, the order in which the commands are transmitted may be different from the order in the present embodiment, and even in such a case, it may be configured not to misunderstand that the effect control means has missed a command that has not yet been transmitted by the game control means. desirable. In other words, it is desirable that the predetermined command transmitted after the variation pattern command is configured not to misidentify that the effect control means has been missed even though the game control means has not yet transmitted.

  In the present embodiment, when the variable display of the special symbol is executed but the variable display of the effect symbol is not executed, the remaining probability change count K of the variable display related command (variation pattern command) is received. Although it was decided to update, it is not limited to this. Hereinafter, as a modified example, when the variable display of the special symbol is executed but the variable display of the effect symbol is not executed, the residual probability variation number K is updated based on the reception of the specific command based on the end of the variable display. A gaming machine will be described. Note that description of the same portions as those in the above-described embodiment is omitted.

  FIG. 38 is a flowchart illustrating the processing during non-execution of variation in the modification. In FIG. 38, after step S2403 or S2407, the effect control CPU 101 subtracts 1 from the remaining probability variation number K (step S3801), and switches and displays the remaining number image corresponding to the subtraction result (step S3802). The process proceeds to step S2404. As a result, when the specific command (symbol confirmation designation command or customer waiting demonstration designation command) based on the end of the variable symbol special display is received during the non-execution of the production symbol, the remaining probability variation number K is updated and notified. Is going to do.

  If the fanfare flag is reset in step S2408 (N in step S2408), the effect control CPU 101 ends the process. In this modified example, when the variation pattern command is received during the non-execution of the production symbol, the special symbol is stopped and displayed, but at least the symbol confirmation designation command is missed. Even though the microcomputer 560 has updated the probability variation counter, the effect control microcomputer 100 has not updated the residual probability variation count K, resulting in inconsistency. Therefore, when the production control microcomputer 100 receives the variation pattern command during the non-execution of the production symbol, it subtracts “2” from the remaining probability variation number K, whereby the probability variation counter and the residual probability variation number K are reduced. It is possible to correct the deviation.

  FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing an effect symbol variation start process in the modification. In FIG. 39, the process of subtracting 1 from the remaining probability variation number K (step S3001) and the process of switching and displaying the remaining number of times (step S3002) are not Y in step S2601, but Y in step S2606. I decided to do it. In other words, in the probability variation state, only when the variable display of the effect symbol is executed, the remaining probability variation count K is updated and notified.

  As described above, in the present variation, in the probability variation state, when the variable display of the effect symbol is executed, the remaining probability variation number K is updated and notified, and when the effect symbol variable display is not performed. In response to reception of a specific command (symbol confirmation designation command, customer waiting demo designation command) based on the special symbol fluctuation stop, the remaining probability variation count K is updated and notified.

  FIG. 40 is a timing chart in the case of not performing variable display of the effect symbol in the modification. The timing chart shown in FIG. 40 shows the presence / absence of variable display of the special symbol on the special symbol display, the presence / absence of control of the big hit game, the presence / absence of variable display of the effect symbol on the effect display device 9, and the table of the effect display device 9. An example, the value of the probability variation counter (that is, the remaining number of probability variation states recognized by the game control microcomputer 560), and the value of the remaining probability variation number K (that is, the remaining probability variation state recognized by the effect control microcomputer 100) Frequency) for each timing. The value of the probability variation counter is shown above the presence / absence of variable symbol display on the special symbol display, and the value of the remaining probability variation K is shown below the display example of the effect display device 9.

  In the timing chart of FIG. 40, first, at the timing c1 when the big hit game ends, “50” is set in the probability variation counter by the game control microcomputer 560, and the remaining probability variation number K by the effect control microcomputer 100. “50” is set in. Then, at the timing c2 when the variable display of the first special symbol in the probability variation state is started, the presentation control microcomputer 100 that has normally received the variation pattern command, the background designation command, and the display result designation command has received the remaining probability variation number K. Is updated from “50” to “49” and character information such as “49 times remaining” is displayed on the effect display device 9 as a remaining number display. At this time, the variable display of effect symbols is started. Then, at the timing c3 when the special symbol variable display ends, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the probability variation counter from “50” to “49”, and has successfully received the symbol confirmation designation command. The effect symbol is stopped and displayed (fixed display) by the computer 100.

  Then, at the timing c4 when the variable display of the next special symbol is started, the production control microcomputer 100 normally receives the variation pattern command, but cannot normally receive the background designation command and the display result designation command. As a result, the swing display is performed without starting the variable display of the effect symbols. At this time, since the variable display of the effect symbols has not been started, the value of the remaining probability variation number K is not updated.

  Then, at the timing c5 when the variable symbol special display ends, the game control microcomputer 560 updates the probability variation counter from “49” to “48”. At this time, the microcomputer 100 for effect control that has successfully received the symbol confirmation designation command updates the value of the remaining probability variation number K from “49” to “48”, and changes the display mode of the remaining number display to “remaining 48”. Switch to text information such as “Time”. At this time, when the symbol confirmation designation command is received, the effect symbol based on the display result designation command is stopped and displayed. At timing c6 when variable display of the next special symbol is started, the production control microcomputer 100 that has normally received the variation pattern command, the background designation command, and the display result designation command sets the value of the remaining probability variation number K to “48”. ”To“ 47 ”and character information such as“ 47 remaining times ”is displayed on the effect display device 9 as the remaining number of times. At this time, the variable display of effect symbols is started. In this way, when a variation pattern command is received but a predetermined command (background designation command and display result designation command) is not received, a specific command (design confirmation command) is received based on the end of variable symbol special display. By updating the residual probability variation number K at the opportunity, the value of the probability variation number counter (remaining number of times recognized by the game control microcomputer 560) and the residual probability variation number K even when the variable display of the effect symbol is not started. Can be prevented from deviating from the value (the remaining number of times recognized by the production control microcomputer 100).

  As described above, according to this modified example, the game control means (in this example, the microcomputer 560 for game control) allows the number of times that the identification information is variably displayed to be a predetermined number (in this example, 50). Until it becomes, it controls to the advantageous gaming state (in this example, probability change state) which is advantageous to the player. In addition, when the effect control means (in this example, the effect control microcomputer 100) is normally controlled in the gaming state, the variable display related command (in this example, the variation pattern command) is normally received. Even if the predetermined command (in this example, the background designation command and the display result designation command) is not normally received, the variable display of the identification information is executed, while the variable display-related is performed when controlled to the advantageous gaming state. When the command is normally received, the variable display of the identification information is executed on condition that the predetermined command is normally received. Furthermore, the effect control means normally receives a specific command (in this example, a symbol confirmation designation command, a customer waiting demonstration designation command) based on the end of variable display of identification information when controlled to the advantageous gaming state. In this case, even if the predetermined command is not normally received, the remaining number of times is updated (in this example, the remaining probability variation number K is subtracted by 1). As a result, even when the variable display of the effect symbol is not executed, the value of the probability variation counter (the remaining number recognized by the game control microcomputer 560) and the value of the remaining probability variation K (the effect control microcomputer 100 uses the effect control microcomputer 100). It is possible to suppress the occurrence of inconsistency with the remaining number of times to be recognized.

  In the present modification, the “specific command based on the end of variable display of identification information” is transmitted after the command indicating that variable display of identification information has ended and the variable display of identification information has ended. It is a concept that includes power commands. The “command indicating that the variable display of the identification information has ended” is, for example, a symbol confirmation designation command. The “command to be transmitted after the variable display of identification information is completed” is a command that is transmitted only after the variable display of identification information is completed if it is operating normally. Specific commands, commands related to jackpot games (fanfare specification command, ending specification command, special winning opening open command, special winning opening open command, etc.) and commands related to the next variable display (variation pattern command) , Background designation command, display result designation command, etc.).

  In addition, in the present modification, when controlled to the advantageous gaming state, when a specific command (symbol confirmation designation command, customer waiting demonstration designation command) based on the end of variable display of identification information is normally received, Although the remaining number of times is updated in the non-fluctuating process (the remaining probability variation number K is subtracted by 1), the timing of updating the remaining number of times is not limited to this. For example, the number of remaining times may be updated at the start of the next variable display as long as it is based on the normal reception of a specific command (design confirmation designation command, customer waiting demonstration designation command).

  In addition, about embodiment mentioned above, although the game machine (what is called a 1st type game machine) which transfers to a jackpot game state based on the variable display result of a special symbol and production | presentation symbol was demonstrated, even if it is another model Good. For example, a variable winning ball apparatus (so-called “so-called”) is entered based on the transition to the first big hit gaming state based on the variable display result of the special symbol and the effect symbol, and the game medium is awarded to a predetermined winning opening provided in the gaming area. A game machine that shifts to the second big hit game state based on the fact that a game ball has won a prize (V prize) in a specific prize slot (V prize slot) in the variable prize ball device. It is good also as applying in the game machine which combined 1 type and 2nd type.

  Further, in the present embodiment, it is possible to shift to the probability change state based on the type of jackpot that has occurred, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a specific area through which a game ball can pass is provided in the big winning opening, and when the game ball passes through the specific area during a big hit, the game moves to a probable change state, while the specific area is played during the big hit. It is also possible to shift to the normal state when does not pass. In that case, substantial probability variation big hit and non-probability big hit may be realized by changing the ease of passing of the game ball to the specific area according to the big hit type. For example, the easiness of passage of the game ball to the specific area may be changed by changing the opening time of the big winning opening according to the big hit type. Specifically, a big hit type with a long opening time of the big winning opening is set as a big hit (substantial probable big hit) that allows a game ball to easily pass to a specific area, and a big hit type with a short opening time of the big winning opening is set to a specific area. It is good also as a big hit (substantial non-probable big hit) that a sphere does not easily pass.

  In the above-described embodiment, in order to notify the effect control microcomputer 100 of the change pattern indicating the change mode such as the change time, the type of reach effect, the presence / absence of the pseudo-ream, etc., 1 is used when the change is started. Although an example in which one variation pattern command is transmitted has been shown, the variation pattern may be notified to the effect control microcomputer 100 by two or more commands. Specifically, in the case of notifying by two commands, the game control microcomputer 560 uses the first command to indicate whether there is a pseudo-ream, a slip effect, etc. before reaching (so-called if not reach). A command indicating the variation time and variation mode before the second stop) is transmitted, and the second command has reached the reach such as the type of reach and presence / absence of re-lottery effect (if the reach is not reach, so-called first) You may make it transmit the command which shows the fluctuation | variation time and fluctuation | variation aspect (after 2 stop). In this case, the effect control microcomputer 100 may perform effect control in variable display based on the variable time derived from the combination of two commands. The game control microcomputer 560 notifies the change time by each of the two commands, and the effect control microcomputer 100 selects the specific change mode executed at each timing. It may be. When sending two commands, two commands may be sent within the same timer interrupt. After sending the first command, a certain period of time has passed (for example, the next timer interrupt). The second command may be transmitted. Note that the variation mode indicated by each command is not limited to this example, and the order of transmission can be appropriately changed. In this way, by notifying the variation pattern by two or more commands, the amount of data that must be stored as the variation pattern command can be reduced.

  In the above-described embodiment, the production control board 80, the audio output board 70, and the lamp driver board 35 are provided as the boards on which the circuit for controlling the production apparatus is mounted. You may mount on one board | substrate. Further, a first effect control board (display control board) on which a circuit for controlling the effect display device 9 and the like is mounted and a circuit for controlling other effect devices (lamps, LEDs, speakers 27, etc.) are mounted. You may make it provide two board | substrates with two production | presentation control boards.

  In the above embodiment, “the ratios are different” is not limited to those having different ratios such as A: B = 70%: 30% or A: B = 30%: 70%, This is a concept including a ratio that is different in a relationship of A: B = 100%: 0% (that is, one with 100% allocation and the other with 0% allocation).

  In the above-described embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 directly transmits a command to the effect control microcomputer 100. However, the game control microcomputer 560 transmits another command (for example, FIG. 3). The sound output board 70 and the lamp driver board 35 shown in FIG. 5 or the sound / lamp board having the function of the circuit mounted on the sound output board 70 and the function of the circuit mounted on the lamp driver board 35). A control command may be transmitted and transmitted to the effect control microcomputer 100 on the effect control board 80 via another board. In that case, the command may simply pass through another board, or the sound output board 70, the lamp driver board 35, and the sound / lamp board are equipped with control means such as a microcomputer, and the control means receives the command. In response to this, control related to sound control and lamp control is executed, and the received command is changed as it is or, for example, to a simplified command to control the effect display device 9. You may make it transmit to. Even in that case, the effect control microcomputer 100 performs the display control in accordance with the effect control command directly received from the game control microcomputer 560 in the above-described embodiment. Display control can be performed in accordance with commands received from the board 35 or the sound / lamp board.

  In the above embodiment, a pachinko machine is taken as an example of the gaming machine. However, according to the present invention, a predetermined number of bets are set by inserting medals, and a plurality of types are set according to the operation of the operation lever by the player. When the symbol is rotated and the symbol is stopped according to the stop button operation by the player, if the combination of the stop symbol becomes a specific symbol combination, it applies to a slot machine in which a predetermined number of medals are paid out to the player It is also possible.

  In the above embodiment, the game machine uses a game medium as an example. However, the game machine according to the present invention is not limited to a game machine that pays out a predetermined number of game media, and a game ball The present invention can also be applied to an enclosed game machine that encloses game media such as the above and gives a score when a prize granting condition is satisfied.

  In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 41 (a), the example in which the counter is added and updated and the timer is subtracted and updated in the variable time timer update processing has been described. ), The counter may be updated by subtraction, and the timer may be updated by addition. Specifically, the initial value of the counter is 25, which is the predetermined value, and the initial value of the timer is 0. In S103 of the fluctuation pattern setting process shown in FIG. 20, the special figure fluctuation time (for example, non-reach PA1) shown in FIG. If the fluctuation pattern is −1, the special figure fluctuation time of 5.80 seconds divided by the counter expiration time of 100 ms is set 58), and when the special symbol fluctuation starts, it is shown in FIG. 41 (a ′). When the timer update process starts, the counter is first decremented by -1 (S1001 '), and it is determined whether or not the count of the counter has reached 0 (S1002'). If it has not reached (NO), the process ends. If it has been reached (YES), the counter is reset to the initial value 25 (S1003 ′), the timer is incremented by 1 (S1004 ′), and it is determined whether or not the timer is a set value (S1005 ′). Is If it is not the default value (NO), the process is terminated, and if the timer is a set value (YES), the value of the special symbol process flag is updated to a value (4 in this example) corresponding to the special symbol stop process in step S304. (S1006), and the process ends.

  In addition, the timer update processing for the variable time is performed by adding and updating the counter in addition to the one that adds and updates the counter and subtracts and updates the timer (pattern 1) and the one that subtracts and updates the counter and adds and updates the timer (pattern 2). The timer may be added and updated (pattern 3), or the counter may be subtracted and updated to update the timer (pattern 4). Similarly, the timer update process for error time shown in FIG. 41 (b), the timer update process for blade opening interval shown in FIG. 41 (c), and the timer update process for blade opening time shown in FIG. Patterns 2-4 can be applied.

  In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 41, the example in which the timer update process is performed by the counter and the timer has been described. However, the timer update process may be performed only by the timer without using the counter. .

  For example, when the special figure fluctuation time is within a range that can be measured by a 2-byte timer updated every 4 ms, the counter need not be used. Specifically, before the special figure fluctuation time is set in the timer, whether or not the special figure fluctuation time can be measured by a 2-byte timer updated every 4 ms (ie, 4 minutes 22 seconds 14 or less). If the time cannot be measured, a value obtained by dividing the special figure variation time by the expiration time of 100 ms of the counter is set, and the processing of FIG. In this case, a value obtained by dividing the special figure variation time by the interrupt interval of 4 ms is set, and S1004 to S1006 are executed without executing S1001 to S1003 in the process of FIG. According to this, the burden on the processing of the CPU 56 can be reduced.

  In the above embodiment, the example in which the timer is configured by 2 bytes has been described. However, the timer may be configured by 1 byte. Specifically, the time data to be set, such as the time for updating the display when the special symbol is variably displayed on the first special symbol display 18a or the second special symbol display 18b, is only within 2 bytes. Sometimes, a 1-byte timer may be used. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and when there is only time data that can be set within 2 bytes, timer update processing without using a counter may be executed. According to this, the number of timers can be reduced, and the burden on the CPU 56 can be reduced.

  Before executing the timer update process shown in FIG. 41, various timers and various counters are set to the pointers, and then the timer update process is executed, so that S1001 to S1005 in FIG. B) S1011 to S1015, S1021 to S1025 of FIG. 41C, and S1031 to S1035 of FIG. Specifically, S1001, S1011, S1021, and S1031 are “counter indicated by pointer 1 (initial value is 0) +1”, and S1002, S1012, S1022, and S1032 are “counter indicated by pointer 1 has reached 25 or not. S1003, S1013, S1023, and S1033 “return the counter indicated by the pointer 1 to the initial value”, S10044, S1014, S1024, and S1034 “the timer indicated by the pointer 2 is −1”, S1005, S1015, and S1025 , S1035 is “determining whether or not the timer indicated by the pointer 2 is 0”, a common module can be obtained, and the burden on the main capacity can be reduced.

  In the above embodiment, the game control microcomputer 560 sets the variation time timer for measuring the variation time of the special symbol by the method shown in FIG. 41 (a) or 41 (a ′). Although the example of updating has been described, the change time timer for the effect control microcomputer 100 to measure the change time of the effect symbol (the effect execution time associated with the change display of the special symbol) is used as the game control microcomputer described above. It may be set by the same method as the computer 560 and updated by the same method. For example, in S8007 of the effect symbol variation start process of FIG. 30, a value corresponding to the variation time of the variation pattern specified by the received variation pattern command is set (for example, if the variation pattern is non-reach PA1-1, the special diagram variation time). 5. 58) obtained by dividing 80 seconds by the expiration time of the counter (100 ms) 58) is set as the initial value of the variable time timer, and each time the effect symbol changing process of S802 is executed, the timer update process shown in FIG. First, the counter is incremented by 1 (S1001), and it is determined whether or not the count of the counter has reached the predetermined value of 25 (S1002). If not reached (NO) If the processing is completed and reached (YES), the counter is reset to the initial value (S1003), the timer is decremented by 1 (S1004), and it is determined whether or not the timer is 0. (S1005) If the timer is not 0 (NO), the process is terminated. If the timer is 0 (YES), the value of the effect symbol process flag is updated to a value corresponding to the effect symbol variation stop process in step S803. To end the process. According to this, since the data of the fluctuation pattern is updated by the timer as 2 bytes, and the time is updated by using a counter for 1 byte separately from that, the timer 100 is also provided on the production control microcomputer 100 side. The time that can be measured can be increased as compared with the case of using only, and the data amount of the variation pattern can be prevented from increasing.

  The present invention is applicable to gaming machines such as pachinko gaming machines and slot machines.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pachinko machine 8a 1st special symbol display device 8b 2nd special symbol display device 9 Production display device 13 1st starting winning port 14 2nd starting winning port 20 Special variable winning ball device 27 Speaker 31 Game control board (main board)
56 CPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 70 Audio | voice output board | substrate 560 Game control microcomputer 80 Production control board 100 Production control microcomputer 101 Production control CPU
109 VDP

Claims (2)

A gaming machine that controls a specific gaming state advantageous to a player when a predetermined specific display result is derived and displayed on variable display means for deriving and displaying a display result after starting variable display,
Game control means for controlling the progress of the game;
And a presentation control means for controlling the execution of the effect based on the command transmitted from the game control unit,
The game control means includes
Command transmission means for transmitting a variable display related command and a predetermined command for variable display;
State control means for controlling to an advantageous gaming state advantageous to the player until the number of variable displays reaches a predetermined number,
The production control means includes
Variable display executing means for executing variable display based on the variable display related command;
In the advantageous gaming state, based on the variable display related command, an update means for updating the remaining number of times until the number of variable displays reaches the predetermined number of times,
Notification means for notifying the update result by the update means,
The variable display execution means includes
When the variable display-related command is normally received while being controlled in the normal gaming state, the variable display is executed even if the predetermined command is not normally received , and based on the variable display-related command. While deriving and displaying the display results ,
If the variable display-related command is normally received while being controlled in the advantageous gaming state, variable display is executed on condition that the predetermined command is normally received, and the predetermined command is normally If not received, limit execution of variable display,
The update means updates the remaining number of times even when the predetermined command is not normally received when the variable display related command is normally received when the advantageous gaming state is controlled. A featured gaming machine.   A gaming machine according to claim 1,
  The first specific game state can be controlled when the first specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means, and the first specific game can be controlled when the second specific display result is derived and displayed on the variable display means. It can be controlled to the second specific gaming state that is disadvantageous than the state,
  A gaming machine characterized by that.

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